EAP:United Healthcare Optum Therapists in Virginia

Hello, my name is Sally. For decades it has been my life mission to help people return to resiliency after setbacks, losses, pain, stress, and suffering. Resiliency means you still acknowledge and own the dark times in your life, but you are freed to return to creating, to feeling compassion instead of being needy and fatigued. Resiliency means your body, brain, hormones, and emotions are back in flow and in healthy relationships with others and the environment and that your mind is free to focus on the things you want and need to focus on. Often people come to therapy feeling stuck and feeling unable to change a situation or the suffering in their lives. Many times for life problems that just emerge, all you need to return to resiliency is more options to consider. Most successful outcomes involve finding the right combination of attacking certain aspects, embracing and loving certain aspects, simply letting go of some aspects, and avoiding some aspects of an issue. I bring a comprehensive set of tools and provide coaching on how you can put the right tools for you and your situation into action. In all cases, it is best to build on our strengths. However, in many cases - especially if your ‘weaknesses’ are connected to intractable and chronic pain or long-term damage, like in addictions, it is best not to ignore or push those problems and feelings down or to the back. I can help you navigate through the inner judges, critics, and defender parts back to a centered, reliable starting place. I help you find and connect a ‘good self to come from’. Sometimes emergent life challenges reveal the deep fault lines of old unresolved traumas. Often struggles with competency, completion, relationships, dependence, or other aspects of being consistently functional and resilient are rooted in unresolved events or relational traumas. I can help you make a journey map to get started in coping with and ultimately resolving those traumas. I can assist you in learning how to connect to and relate to those parts that are impediments to healthy relationships, body flow, and resiliency. The task is to reorganize clusters of feelings and find a starting place for change and balance.

My hopes are to be a soft place to fall when discussing life's challenges, difficult topics, painful thoughts & dashed hopes. As a 'young at heart' woman in my 50's, I'm a survivor of many of life's unexpected difficult high & low roads filled with detours, switchbacks & gotten lost trying to get myself over life's mountains. As a daughter, sister, friend, girlfriend, wife, mother, homemaker, older student, divorcee & ultimately becoming a compassionate solution-focused strength's based therapist after learning how powerful talk-therapy is. I'm familiar with life's sudden wake-up calls w/missed signs, getting comfortable & days/weeks become months/years w/o noticing how I'd drifted into patterns that didn't take into consideration my own wants, wishes & needs. I've been there. We all have histories where we made good, bad, convenient & self-defeating decisions based on what we knew. We've also been alongside others who may have done the same & negatively impacted you on your journey. Experience & wisdom can be incredible teachers. Understanding our truths of 'how-when-what-how-why' of it all can be the glue that sets us free from repeating/role-modeling what hurt/deterred us most. My innate curiosity, successes & failures has led me to find the honest answers I needed most and why I became a therapist. I earned my License as Clinical Social Worker with a focus on Adult Mental Health & Addiction. I've honed my passion, purpose & skills to help shorten the learning curve & needless suffering of those facing the slippery slopes when life's difficult moments/transitions were around corners we couldn't see.

Hello, I'm Jerrika. Do you struggle with finding motivation and meeting your goals? Do you worry too much that you aren't able to feel like you're living up to your full potential? Do you have a difficult time managing your relationships and communicating what you need? I empower men and women who struggle with managing anxiety and depression that gets in the way of meeting their goals and preventing an overall healthy and meaningful life. We will work together to identify the source of your symptoms and create treatment goals to start getting you to a better place with yourself, relationships, and meeting your life goals. I incorporate a variety of techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation, and role-playing to help guide you in the right direction. Whether you're dealing with trauma, marital stress, or burnout, I am here to support you through your mental health journey. There is nothing that you aren't able to overcome if you believe in yourself and what your are working toward. Let's work together to get you back on track and feel more in control of your life.

Hello, I'm Dr. Meagan Jones. Life can be so challenging at times, and I am here to help you navigate those challenging times, learn what you will, and help you grow. I have been doing counseling for over 17 years now, I am a counseling supervisor, and I am also a professor in a mental health counseling master's program. I specialize in trauma, sexual trauma, gender and sexuality counseling, and also have a lot of experience with depression and anxiety. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Sex Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Creative Techniques. Each of these methods have been backed by research and proven to offer deep healing from trauma on a neurological, psychological, and emotional level. I am kink friendly, lifestyle and polyamory friendly, and an LGBTQIA ally. All are welcome here. I would love to help you learn and grow and become the best version of yourself, so if you are interested please schedule an introductory session or call and see if we are a good fit.

I have been working with individuals struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use, sexual addiction, and mental health challenges for the past ten years. I have a real heart to walk alongside you to encourage, support, and empower you to move forward in your recovery needs. I graduated from Liberty University in 2014 with an MA in Professional Counseling and completed a Doctoral program specializing in treating trauma-related challenges. I approach recovery through the eyes of motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I am also trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy.

My name is Michael Starr, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I believe therapy is more than just problem-solving, it’s a place to rediscover who you are, heal what’s been hidden, and move forward with clarity and strength. I work with individuals, couples, and families facing anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, identity questions, and emotional overwhelm. My style is honest, grounded, and deeply respectful of the human experience. I use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Focused CBT, but I also hold space for what cannot always be explained, your story, your meaning, your growth. Clients often come to me feeling stuck, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward. Together, we uncover the patterns keeping you there and build the insight, skills, and resilience to move through them. You won’t be rushed or judged. You’ll be heard, supported, and challenged when needed. You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to be willing to start. Healing begins with one honest conversation, and I’m here to take that step with you.

Hi! My name is LaPetra Whigham. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 20 yrs of experience working with individuals and families. I'm a highly skilled and compassionate therapist who works with individuals with issues ranging from trauma, depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, emotional eating, psuedoseizures and women issues. I utilizied different therapuetic models to empower clients to make the necessary changes to impove their quality of life.

Welcome, I am Virginia and it is so nice to meet you! Thank you for taking this first step in feeling better, I believe this is the hardest one because people generally don't wake up one morning and desire to include a stranger in on their personal thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and troublesome behaviors. I hope to be a helpful fellow traveler to you and I am happy to let you be in the drivers seat regarding your treatment, I have lot's of suggestions - but they each only work if you put them to use:-)

Hello, I am Michele Gunter, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Commonwealth of Virginia. I have worked for over 24 years as a LCSW. I have a wealth of experience helping people from ages 5-85 with issues such anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, mood disorders, OCD, and many more issues. I focus on meeting my client where they are and helping them gain insight, understanding, self-discovery, and healing. My goals is to empower you to free yourself from the patterns that hinder your well-being, fostering resilience, and a renewed sense of self.

Hello, I’m Anita Wiles, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker based in Richmond, Virginia. With over three decades of experience in individual therapy, I am proud to provide compassionate and professional care to clients throughout Virginia. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from Virginia Commonwealth University and have been a licensed practitioner since 1993. Over the years, I have supported clients facing a wide range of challenges, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse issues. My approach is client-centered and tailored to each individual’s unique needs, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for growth and healing. Whether you're seeking help to navigate a specific challenge or striving for personal development, I am here to guide you on your journey. Let’s work together toward your well-being and empowerment.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas. I received my Masters from LeTourneau University and have been practicing for 4 years. I work with adult clients living with self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, and anger. The goal is to provide a safe space for clients to openly talk, gain self-awareness, and identify ways to overcome their challenges.

We are responsible for our own choices, and sometimes for the choices of others. That responsibility can feel daunting, especially when change is already unfolding beneath the surface. I believe that asking for help is itself a courageous act of authenticity. My practice provides a direct, down-to-earth space for adults navigating major life transitions, emotional overwhelm, and pattern breaking, focusing entirely on real-time reality and practical tools you can use outside of our sessions.

Welcome! I'm Stephanie Freeman,MSW, LCSW, LCAS. Take a moment to acknowledge you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. Counseling can foster personal development in whatever way you may be seeking and help build the life you so deeply deserve. If that's what you're looking for, I'm here when you're ready to share.

I am excited about the success my clients have accomplished. It is their discovery that is most interesting: for example, it is possible to change personality even though we have always been told it never happens! We approach this by exploring emotions that form the building blocks of personality. In this sort of work, I find that the most effective therapy happens when clients and I form a interpersonal therapeutic bond of trust. By the way, when I say that change is possible , I really believe it, and I am confident that if you are willing to work on what many would call impossible...building trust...you will leave our sessions feeling a sense of increased wholeness. (Today also marks the beginning of a new partnership with Teach America! I have loved Teach America since they began. Grow Therapy and I are offering 20 counseling sessions to Teach America members free of charge!)

I’m a mindfulness-based, holistic therapist who believes in focusing on your strengths and positives while supporting your healing journey. In our work together, I’ll help you build awareness, find balance, and connect with your resilience. I'll work to empower you in everything that you do. My goal is to empower you to feel more grounded, hopeful, and confident as you grow into the best version of yourself.

Hi, I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio and a Licensed Professional Counselor Virginia and Arizona. I graduated with my M.A. in Clinical Counseling in 2013. I am a Certified Mood Disorder Professional (CMDP), and I specialize in woman's issues, life transitions, individuals diagnosed with mood disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression (as well as treatment resistant depression), and individuals with suicidal and self harming behaviors.

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.

I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist with experience working with individuals of all ages, including those struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, autism, and various mental health conditions. My approach is tailored to each individual, utilizing a variety of evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and other therapeutic techniques. By focusing on building resilience, enhancing coping skills, and promoting positive change, I help clients overcome challenges and develop a deeper sense of self-awareness and empowerment. My goal is to support individuals in creating lasting change, improving their mental well-being, and achieving a fulfilling, balanced life

Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, couples, women, and families. I genuinely love supporting individuals and partners as they discover their worth, heal, strengthen their relationships, and unlock the truest parts of themselves. Every session is an opportunity for growth and skill building. I take time to listen deeply, use effective therapeutic tools, and offer a direct (sometimes gently challenging), supportive approach to understanding your needs. Together, we will explore your goals, uncover new possibilities, and develop meaningful strategies for healing whether individually or within your relationship. I’m passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges, including depression, attention difficulties, anxiety and stress, self-esteem and self-worth, grief and loss, anger, relationship conflicts, communication struggles, feelings of abandonment or rejection, and major life transitions. I also work with couples to improve connection, rebuild trust, and foster healthier communication patterns. I’m excited to walk alongside you on life’s journey while celebrating your growth, strengthening your relationships, and embracing the possibilities ahead!

I am a licensed clinical social worker with a diverse background in mental health care across various settings and states. Outpatient therapy and telehealth therapy services are my primary focus. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, understanding, and respect for each client's unique experiences and emotions. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where individuals can explore their challenges, build resilience, and work toward meaningful change.

Hi and welcome, I'm Mary and I'm a Licensed Social Worker providing virtual psychotherapy services in DC and VA. I'm dedicated to assisting in your journey to find support and encouragement to process life’s challenges. I commend you for your willingness to seek available resources and welcome the opportunity to work together. During my career, I've had the pleasure of working with individuals and caregivers who have experienced life-changing events as well as daily hardships that include higher levels of anxiety and depression. These experiences have helped me realize that we all can grow, expand our resilience and obtain our goals. With the guidance of a qualified therapist, this process may be a bit smoother.

Hi, my name is Stephen As a Christian do you ever feel like you are letting God down, or like you are not being faithful enough because you have real-life problems? Problems In your relationship, emotionally, behaviorally, or even with substance abuse. Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help individuals manage their anxiety, depression, or burnout by addressing the needs of your body, mind, and spirit using the bible. I integrate current counseling theories with sound biblical principles to help develop a stronger relationship with God, and a stronger you. Whether you are dealing with being overwhelmed, relationship issues, or cycles of anxiety and depression, I am here to help. Seeking therapy can seem scary and maybe even against some of the teachings you've learned in church, but you are making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together I will meet with you, and your spouse if you want, with compassion and evidence-based techniques while using biblical principles so you can overcome the hang-ups and habits holding you back. The research says that 1 in 4 people in the United States, at any given time, have mental health issues. This does not exclude the church. The average church in Virginia has 250 members attending on any given Sunday. That means that at least fifty people in your church service last Sunday are struggling with some type of mental illness or emotional problem. I work with churches to help them with ministering to the hurting, please let me help you.

I enjoy working with people to help them build a strong sense of self, encourage their confidence in relationships, and help foster a sense of calm and security in their everyday life. I enjoy helping parents navigate the many challenges that come our way. I believe people seek therapy for many reasons: adjustment to a new city or life situation, feeling overwhelmed or stuck, or problems with relationships. Counseling is a process that most of us could benefit from time to time at different stages in life, as it brings an outsider's perspective to events, we are faced with in day-to-day life in a nonjudgmental way.

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.

Sunday is an authentic, humorous, compassionate, and highly skilled licensed professional counselor with a specialization in Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Addiction, Anger Management, Self-Esteem issues, Marital Conflict, Trauma, and PTSD. Sunday has over 5years experience in working with the adult population and employs a client-centered approach to establish a genuine connection with my clients. Sunday acknowledges the clients' uniqueness and adopts a non-judgmental stance to create a safe environment that allows clients to address distressing issues. He explains the diagnoses and collaborates to develop personalized treatment plans to meet clients’ needs. Sunday is passionate about spending time with family and traveling, and he has done quite a bit of it both within and outside the country.

Hi and welcome to the first step in your healing journey. I understand that taking this first step can be difficult, but it is courageous and I'm here to support you on your journey. I have 15 years of experience in the mental health field working with adults, adolescents, children, and families with a wide range of mental health needs including anxiety, trauma, depression, grief and loss, parenting, and life stressors. My diverse background equips me to help people in different stages of life with a variety of needs. I truly enjoy working with children but I have a general belief that in-person care is the best option. I have treatment specific interest in treating anxiety disorders and the inevitable complications with daily life struggles that develop with anxiety-based symptoms. Anxiety is often linked to events that were experienced as traumatic or confusing in childhood or during our adult lives. I believe that everyone is unique as well as their life experiences therefore treatment interventions need to be individualized.

My passion lies in helping others find solutions to their problems and live happier and productive lives. I am a graduate of University of Maryland- Baltimore (MSW) Clinical Social Work, and a graduate of UNC Charlotte (BA in Psychology/Criminal Justice).  I enjoy working with individuals and families, children, and adults, and I have a special passion for helping young adults overcome life’s challenges. I have experience in treating emotional and behavioral problems, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance abuse, schizophrenia, trauma, ADHD, conduct disorder, etc. I also have experience in working with diverse populations, using evidence-based approaches, and cultural sensitivity and awareness.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) for the State of Virginia. *Important Disclaimers: 1) You MUST actively reside in or be able to be located in Virginia for our sessions to register for therapy services with me. 2) I only have availability on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from 10:00am to 6:00pm. 3) If you are seeking Couples Counseling, please note that both partners MUST commit to Individual Counseling with another therapist within 30 days of starting sessions with me. 4) Intake Forms MUST be completed prior to our first session. I received my B.A from Norfolk State University (HBCU) (Norfolk, VA) and M.A. from South University (Virginia Beach, VA). I have over 14 years of experience with helping individuals with mood disorders and anxiety. I have witnessed and celebrated many clients make significant positive progress, accomplish their dreams and goals. My counseling style is very interactive, relaxing and peaceful. I share hope and offer compassion throughout the span of treatment. My treatment approach combines Christian Counseling, Cognitive-Behavioral, Client/Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance-Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused and Reality Therapy. The interventions and treatment goals will be specifically tailored to your needs. I believe your Mental Health is just as important and valuable as your Spiritual and Physical health. You need all to become a well-balanced human being. I am so happy and proud of you for making the first step for a Better and Healthier You! I look forward to meeting and working with you in this new season.

Twenty-five years of experience working with a wide range of individuals with a wide range of presenting problems and needs. I have helped individuals work through grief, trauma, adjustment disorders, difficult life transitions, acculturation issues and end of life counseling. I have helped many individuals gain new insights and coping abilities in managing chronic mood disorders, anxiety and fear disorders, personality disorders and impulse control disorders. I have experience working with addiction and recovery including compulsive gambling and sex addictions. I have also worked with individuals in various stages of commitment to change. I began my career working in community mental health serving individuals with severe and persistent mental illness/primary psychosis disorders such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective, delusional and bipolar affective disorders. I have worked in a variety of settings within the mental health field including hospital settings, partial hospitalization settings, outpatient therapy, intensive case management, as well as remote services. I have been clinical director of two outpatient treatment centers. I have facilitated many therapy groups including anger management, anxiety management, wellness and recovery, co-occurring disorders and trauma-focused groups.

I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia with over 10 years experience. I help mothers and new parents with managing the transitions, demands, and challenges of pregnancy and parenthood in order to show up in the best way for themselves and their loved ones. I also assist clients with understanding and processing stress related to cultural bias and racial trauma and incorporate practices that promote healing and empowerment.

Hi, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I have a PhD in Psychology, a Master of Counseling and a bachelor’s degree in psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and has been practicing since 2011. I have experience in working with adults and children with a history of inpatient mental health treatment, substance abuse, and crisis management. I have also worked alongside families and children in the juvenile justice system.

Hello! I'm Robert, and I want to commend you for taking the courageous step towards bettering yourself through therapy. As a licensed therapist in Arizona and Virginia with 6 years of professional experience, I have had the privilege of working with individuals facing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, complex trauma, PTSD, and life changes. My approach is rooted in respect, sensitivity, and compassion, ensuring that every client feels valued and understood.

Welcome to your new chapter in self-care and healing! It is my pleasure to accompany you in transforming life's challenges into triumphs. My specialties include anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem, grief, and adjustments with life changes. I strive to provide an authentic, open space where you feel welcomed, understood, supported, and equipped with skills and resources throughout your healing journey in order to reach your goals.

Welcome, My name is Ariam Peña, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia and Virginia. I received my Master’s degree from Argosy University and have been practicing for over a decade. I help adults with the different challenges of life and pressures that often take the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and substance abuse. I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life.

My name is Maria. I have been practicing therapy for 21 years. I have worked in a variety of settings such as, a hospital emergency room seeing individuals struggling with mental health issues. I have also work with children and adults. I feel privileged to have you allow me into your life and share your experiences and struggles with me.

Welcome. As your therapist, I hold dear the opportunity to share your life story and personal growth with you. I will have high regard for you as a person. I will show up and provide the best possible service from my knowledge base and studies. I utilize an person centered approach to therapy. I will always have compassion and empathy, as you are valuable and hold worth as an individual. I am here to support your plan to accomplish your goals.

Hello, I am a Clinical Psychologist with over ten years of experience helping individuals of various ages to overcome a wide range of diagnoses and mental health struggles including anxiety, depression as well as grief and trauma. I have done so in a number of settings including my own private practice, hospitals, schools and community health centers. I am grateful Growtherapy gives me the opportunity to be able to help individuals such as yourself.

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 25 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults through a wide range of mental health concerns. With a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and national certification, I bring a deep commitment to compassionate, evidence-based care that begins with accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment planning. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in diverse settings—including schools, group homes, hospitals, and outpatient clinics—which has given me a broad understanding of the unique challenges individuals and families face. In addition to clinical work, I teach psychology at local colleges and universities and actively contribute to my community through volunteer work. As a board-approved LPC Supervisor in Virginia, I also enjoy mentoring students and Residents as they grow into confident, ethical professionals. Whether you're seeking support for yourself, your child, or looking for professional guidance, I’m here to provide a thoughtful, experienced, and collaborative approach to care.

Hi! I'm Jasmine and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has been practicing therapy for 6 years. I obtained a Bachelors in Psychology in 2010 at Eastern Michigan University and completed my Master of Social Work at Johnson C. Smith University, graduating in 2017. Do you have a hard time with change and life transitions? Do you feel overstimulated and unable to ground yourself? Do you feel isolated or "different" from everybody else? Are you exploring your identity, sexuality, or self-image? Are you seeking a therapist who can provide an atmosphere where you feel comfortable enough to vent, find relief, and explore your story– however unconventional it may be? Do you crave a space where you can find yourself or be encouraged to be the expert on your life while being held accountable for your goals? If you want to live a life that aligns with your values or true identity while communicating and reinforcing your boundaries, I can help you get there. Together, using strength-based and person-centered therapy with a psychodynamic touch (and a healthy dose of humor), we can partner and begin your journey to building the confidence to be who you are and enhancing your strengths. Finally, feel self-assured in your value and speak up for what you want in your life, relationships, and career. If you’re ready to build a happy, thriving life while being true to yourself, let’s chat today. I come from a military family that has been located throughout the United States, allowing me the opportunity to meet people from varying cultures and backgrounds. This has contributed to my ability to become more culturally competent and open-minded when working with different clients. When I’m not in therapist mode, I’m... Either out and about on the town attending open mics, enjoying brunch, having fun at concerts or at home watching the Food Network, cartoons, dramas, and comedies.

Dwyana Smithen-Lewis, MA, LPC, Certified Holistic Practitioner Who am I? I am HER: Hopeful, Empowered, Resilient. I am great. I am divine. I deeply believe that every one of us embodies the same greatness, the same divine essence. My mission is to help individuals recognize their own potential, embrace their unique strengths, and step boldly into a brighter, more fulfilling future. My therapeutic approach is built on compassion, cultural understanding, and a commitment to personal growth. Drawing from both my West Indian heritage and my 10 years of service in the U.S. Navy, I bring a well-rounded perspective that acknowledges the challenges people face and the resilience they possess. I believe therapy should be a collaborative process, empowering individuals to push beyond their comfort zones, learn from life’s trials, and create lasting change through new habits and patterns. In my practice, I focus on helping clients cultivate emotional wellness, navigate major life transitions, and build the skills needed to thrive in the face of adversity. Whether it’s developing healthy coping strategies, improving communication, or fostering a sense of inner strength, my goal is to guide clients on a path toward greater self-discovery and personal empowerment.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Virginia. I received my graduate training at Smith College School for Social Work in a clinically focused program. I believe that here is hope in the process of self-discovery. You are responsible for your process of change and the power of healing lies within each of us. I will be your skilled responsive partner. We will hold space for difficult and joyous moments. Let's journey together as you gain insight and build a life that works better for you. My therapeutic approach is attuned, responsive, person-centered and culturally aware. I strive to build a trusting empathic connection that fosters safety and authenticity. I have worked with persons presenting with a wide range of issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, interpersonal challenges, adjustment challenges, stress reactions, and male abuse survivors.

My name is Juan A. López and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I received my graduate degree in Mental Health in 2005 from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. In 2010 I became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Qualified Supervisor for Mental Health Registered Interns in 20015. I have more than 10 years practicing psychotherapy and Behavior Analysis with children, adolescents and adults with a variety of diagnoses. I want you to know that the most difficult decision in life is asking for help and by taking the time to do some searching and reaching out, deserves a lot of self-admiration and self-credit of empowerment. I am a true believer that with a little help, anybody can accomplish great things and achieve most of their personal goals in life by implementing changes.

Hi, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Virginia. I received my PhD in Counselor Education from Virginia Tech and have been practicing for over 22 years. I have worked with clients from many different backgrounds and circumstances. I help young adults who are struggling to figure out their future as well as older adults with mid-life challenges and difficulties.

I am licensed in Virginia with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience working from youth ages 4-17 and adults ages 18-70. I have experiences primarily working with individuals with anxiety, depression, adhd, and trauma. I am a Christian (but not a Christian therapist) and can compliment that side of your needs if you so prefer allowing a safe environment for religious/spiritual challenges. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Alicia Cadiz is a skilled therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals facing challenges such as relationship difficulties, situationships, breakups, and addiction. Alicia is a trauma and resilience specialist for veterans and first responders as well. Alicia takes a holistic psychoanalytic and psychodynamic approach to therapy. Alicia will help you rediscover your inner confidence and help rebuild your self-esteem. Most importantly, in a safe place where you can fully trust your therapist.

Hello, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) with over 14 years of experience supporting adults through life’s challenges. I earned my Master’s degree from the University of Central Florida and my Doctorate degree from Arizona State University. I am currently licensed to practice in Florida, Maine, Virginia, Arizona, California, Kansas, Vermont, Maryland, and Colorado. Although I reside in Florida, I provide telehealth services to clients across these states. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and strengths-based. I believe each person has the capacity for growth and healing, and I work alongside clients to help them recognize their resilience and build meaningful change. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, or relationship challenges, I provide a supportive space to help you find balance, clarity, and emotional well-being.

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’m Dr. Sally, a Licensed Professional Counselor serving clients in Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia. My work is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and a genuine belief in people’s capacity to heal and grow. Alongside my clinical practice, I also serve as a Clinical Supervisor and Professor in Counseling, where I have the privilege of supporting and mentoring emerging mental health professionals. My Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision, along with specialized training in trauma work, reflects my long‑standing commitment to walking with individuals through some of the most challenging chapters of their lives. Before opening my private practice, I worked in community‑based and addiction counseling, partnering with individuals facing significant adversity. Those experiences shaped my approach: listening closely, honoring each person’s story, and helping them uncover practical, hopeful steps forward. Whether I’m supporting clients or training future counselors, my goal is the same—to create spaces where people feel safe, understood, and empowered.

I am Gregory a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist. I believe therapy and coaching is a very personal and intimate experience, therefore I take a gentle, non-judgmental, yet action-oriented approach. I provide clinical therapy and I enjoy working with your entire family or just you. I have worked with individuals, families and couples in a variety of settings for over 30 years. I enjoy the progress my clients make and I look forward to supporting you in healing and growing.

Hi, I’m Stasia Manak. I’ve spent over 10 years working alongside people as they face life’s challenges—whether it’s trauma, relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, grief, or just feeling lost. I work with teens and adults (13+) and believe in building a strong, collaborative relationship in therapy. My goal is to help you feel more comfortable, confident, and grounded in your life, one step at a time.