EAP:United Healthcare Optum Therapists in Virginia

Hello, I am Dorothy Brass. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides therapeutic counseling services. I have a career in social work that has expanded over 30 years in practicing therapy, case management, and assessment services with all ages. I have held positions in Hospice, Youth Services, Social Services, Medical, Geriatric Services, and School Social Work. I hold a Bachelor of Social Work from Norfolk State University and a Master of Social Work from the University of Iowa.

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.

Hi I'm Christy. Do you sometimes find that you are your own worst enemy? Finding fault with everything you do, never feeling like you're living up to expectations? My goal in therapy is to help you turn your inner critic into a compassionate voice that can comfort you when you're down and give you the inspiration you need to reach your goals. We will work together to help you get to know yourself so that you will be able to care for yourself, identify your strengths, and give yourself the encouragement you need to succeed. I will also help you learn how to be more resilient in the face of obstacles so that you will be better able to find new solutions.

The woman who has it all together on the outside is often the one carrying the most on the inside. If you're high-achieving, dependable, and exhausted — not from laziness but from carrying too much for too long — this is the space you've been looking for. I'm Whitley Frazier, LCSW, and I specialize in trauma-informed therapy for women and teens navigating trauma, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, and major life transitions. My work is direct, warm, and grounded in approaches that actually produce change. EMDR is at the core of what I do. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR works at a neurological level — helping your brain reprocess stored trauma so it no longer controls how you feel, react, and relate. The result isn't just feeling better temporarily. It's actually being different on the other side. You don't have to keep white-knuckling through life. Healing is possible — and you're worth it.

Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Virginia and Florida with a passion for supporting adults who are navigating challenges such as addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions, or the everyday stressors that can leave us feeling stuck. Many of my clients come to me feeling exhausted from carrying their struggles alone, wanting a safe and nonjudgmental space to be heard, understood, and supported. My goal is to help you build healthier ways of coping, strengthen your sense of self, and create the balance and peace you’ve been searching for.

I am a licensed therapist dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based support to individuals navigating life's challenges. With a focus on building trust and empowering clients, I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space for growth, healing, and self-discovery. Whether you're managing anxiety, stress, or life transitions, I tailor therapeutic approaches to meet your unique needs, helping you develop lasting coping strategies and emotional resilience.

Welcome. Here you are seen, supported, and safe in a serene, culturally attuned, LGBTQIA+2 affirming space. I’m Liz Serens, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with more than 22 years of active study in human development. I work exclusively through virtual care, supporting adults navigating anxiety, ADHD related experiences, identity exploration, and major life transitions. I help adults find clarity, steadiness, and self‑trust during moments that feel overwhelming. I show up as a steady, emotionally attuned guide for clients who want a space where their internal world is taken seriously. I practice from a primarily agnostic perspective and welcome clients from all cultural and spiritual backgrounds. I have been providing telehealth services for 1.5 years, and my approach is collaborative, grounded, and shaped by lived experiences including ADHD, a learning disability, body image challenges, and parenting a gender‑fluid child. I remain open to learning what each client needs to feel supported, regulated, and connected in their treatment.

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

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

Greetings my name is Sandra Robertson Muhammad. I have been providing mental health/psychotherapy services for fifteen years. I aim to provide a trusting, supportive therapeutic environment for the healing process. So if you're feeling sad, anxious or even overwhelmed and need support for change communication is key-let's talk about it. Communication is key-let's talk about it. Remember overall health includes mental health.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Latasha is dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized, and evidence-informed therapeutic services to adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, emotional challenges, and difficulties navigating everyday life. Life can present unexpected challenges, but you do not have to navigate them alone. Latasha believes that everyone deserves a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental environment where they feel heard, understood, valued, and supported. Latasha goal is to create a warm, welcoming, and therapeutic space where clients can openly explore their emotions, gain greater self-awareness, strengthen their confidence, and develop effective coping strategies to manage life's challenges. Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming or intimidating, but seeking support is a meaningful step toward personal growth and emotional well-being. Latasha's therapeutic approach is relaxed, collaborative, supportive, and tailored to each individual's unique experiences, strengths, and needs. Through a compassionate and person-centered approach, Latasha works collaboratively with clients to identify personal goals, develop healthier thought patterns, improve emotional regulation, and build practical skills that promote resilience, self-confidence, and lasting positive change. You deserve to feel supported, empowered, and confident in your ability to navigate life's challenges. Therapy is a journey, and you do not have to take that journey alone.

Hi, I look forward to helping individuals navigate through life's experiences. If you are looking for a skilled and compassionate provider who wants to see you grow and live a flourishing life. I am ready to serve. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys helping individuals navigate and overcome challenging life experiences. I am always humble and appreciate that people allow me to come alongside them during their most difficult experiences.

Welcome! My name is Kelini and I am committed to supporting both individuals and couples through life’s unique challenges. I work diligently to be your safe sounding board. I aim to help clients to understand that not only are they learning from me, but I from them as well. I create a safe space for you to navigate your stressors. We will move at your pace, build a trusting relationship, and discover a custom-fit key to unlocking YOUR best life.

As a neurodivergent Black woman living with a chronic illness and mother of three adult children, two of whom identify with the LGBTQ+ commmunity, I am always interested in the deeper question people carry about their lives. Many of the individuals I work with are thoughtful, capable people who have spent years showing up for others, meeting expectations, and doing what seemed like the responsible thing to do. At some point, though, many begin to notice a quiet sense that something no longer fits. My work centers around helping people slow down enough to understand what is actually happening beneath that feeling. Together we look at the patterns, experiences, and internal narratives that shape how you see yourself and the choices available to you. From that place, people often begin to rediscover a clearer sense of who they are and what direction their lives might take moving forward. I am especially drawn to working with adults navigating identity shifts, relationship transitions, and moments in life where the path forward is no longer obvious.

Are you looking to make changes but need support and gentle accountability? Then, let me introduce myself. My name is Jessica Stallard and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Virginia (license #0904008299). I received a Bachelor’s Degree (BA) in Sociology and a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Radford University in Radford, VA (Go Highlanders!). I have over 15 years of experience working with people from diverse backgrounds and various ages in a variety of clinical settings including crisis assessment, biopsychosocial assessment, outpatient counseling, EAP, teaching, and clinical supervision. I am a person-centered and trauma-informed therapist who uses cognitive behavioral and mindfulness concepts to help those I work with achieve the goals they set for themselves. If you think you might like to work with me, please reach out. I would love to see what we can do!

Tikita Ficklin is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Georgia and Virginia and a National Certified Counselor. She utilizes a variety of therapeutic modalities tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, with a particular focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Tikita believes that meaningful change begins with addressing the thoughts that influence our emotions and behaviors. Through CBT, she helps clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop healthier perspectives, and build effective strategies for managing their emotions and behaviors. Tikita earned her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Mercer University. She is passionate about creating a supportive, empowering, and nonjudgmental environment where clients can gain insight, heal, grow, and work toward becoming the best version of themselves.

Hello, My name is Natalie Lewis and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Florida, Georgia, Virginia, and the U. S. Virgin Islands. My educational background is in psychology, marriage and family therapy, and industrial organizational psychology. I specialize in providing counseling to individuals, groups, children, teenagers, young adults, couples, and married couples. My specialties are self-care, work/life balance, anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD and family discord etc. I also work with busy professionals who are trying to maintain a healthy work/life balance. I also complete Immigration Evaluations- Asylum, Hardship Waiver, T-Visa, U-Visa, and VAWA.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, mentally unsteady, or unsure how to move forward — you don’t have to carry that alone. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and graduate of North Carolina State University. I work with adults navigating anxiety, burnout, life transitions, relationship stress, and questions of direction or purpose. Many of the people I support feel capable and motivated — yet internally worn down, struggling to feel grounded, present, or confident in themselves. My primary focus is helping clients stabilize emotionally and mentally — so you feel more anchored, regulated, and clear. From that place of steadiness, we begin to explore how you can grow into the fullest version of yourself, making the most of your strengths, values, and lived experience rather than trying to become someone you’re not. Therapy with me is not about pushing or fixing — it’s about creating a solid foundation where clarity, confidence, and meaningful change can naturally emerge. For those who find meaning and strength in their Christian faith, I welcome that as part of our work together — though spirituality is never required or assumed. You bring what matters to you, and we build from there.

My name is Amber and I am just your average woman living life in the midwest. I am a wife, mother to 3, soon to be 4 (in September 2026), littles and therapist. I have served all kinds of populations from incarceration to outpatient working with kiddos as young as 3 to adults in their 80s. What you see in session, the laid back, goofy but can be blunt person is who you'd meet on the street if you saw me in public. I believe healing comes from within but also from the people you choose to surround yourself with. Some people have a great support system and others have me as their cheerleader and I strive to be a good one.

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.

Imagine a space where you can be your authentic self, express your deepest concerns without fear, where your thoughts and feelings matter, and where your experiences are acknowledged and respected. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is here to guide, support, and empower you every step of the way on your journey towards healing. I work with children ages 4 & up, adolescents, adults, individuals, groups, couples, and families to explore strategies to navigate challenges, develop coping mechanisms, and build a strong foundation for your mental and emotional well-being.

HeIlo. My name is Tracey and I am pleased you are here. Just to share a little bit about myself. I am a wife and a mother. I have worked as a licensed clinical social worker for fifteen years, however I have over twenty years of experience in counseling. Guided by Christian values of grace, hope, and compassion, I seek to support clients in a way that honors both their emotional well-being and, when desired, their spiritual journey. I believe healing occurs through a combination of understanding, truth, and practical action, and I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.

Hey y'all! My name's Pam and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia. I've been practicing in the field of social work since graduating from Radford University with my Masters degree in 2010. Since 2018, I have worked within an inpatient psychiatric facility providing treatment to individuals with a variety of mental health needs. I've always had a passion for helping others and am excited to have this platform as a way to help people better understand themselves and live life to their full potential.

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.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Commonwealth of Virginia and a Licensed Independent Social Worker in the State of Ohio. I am a compassionate therapist specializing in anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma. My approach integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with mindfulness techniques, and a focus on the mind-body connection. I am committed to providing trauma-informed care to ensure a safe and supportive therapeutic experience.

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.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Virginia. I received my Masters from Radford University in 2016 and have been practicing for about 10 years. I help adults who are struggling with different issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, low self-esteem, etc. find an improved quality of life. No problem is too big or small to talk about.

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.

As a Therapist/Life Coach and owner of Journeys of Life Therapeutic Resources, I'm passionate about helping individuals transition into their best selves. I approach my work as a "transitioner," rather than a traditional therapist, guiding and supporting clients through life's challenges and towards personal growth. Life can be incredibly difficult to navigate and it's not uncommon to feel like a butterfly trapped in a cocoon, struggling to find your way out. That's where I come in - I stand by your side to assist you on your journey, providing the guidance, tools, and support needed to transform into the most beautiful version of yourself imaginable. At Journeys of Life Therapeutic Resources, I understand that every person's journey is unique. I offer a customized, holistic approach to therapy, meaning we tailor our services to fit your individual needs. We focus on developing a deep understanding of your goals and work together with you to craft a plan that helps you achieve them. Using therapeutic techniques, I help you navigate the complexities of life and tap into your inner strengths. Together, we create an environment where you feel secure, open, and empowered to embark on your journey of transformation. If you're looking to make a change in your life and transition into the best version of yourself, I'm here to help. Contact me today to begin unlocking your potential and discovering what's possible for your life.

Hi my name is Angie, I am a licensed professional counselor in Richmond Virginia. I have over 20 years of experience working in the mental health field. My clinical experiences include working in acute care settings, inpatient settings, community settings and as an outpatient therapist in solo private practice. I enjoy working with adults and couples who are navigating through transitional periods in their lives. I enjoy helping people develop and strengthen their sense of self and help them meet their personal goals.

Hi all, I am a talk therapist that works on providing a non-judgmental and safe place to discuss stressors. I use Person Centered, mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with an eclectic and holistic approach with my clients. **I incorporate dream interpretations, astrology, and tarot in sessions.** I will work with you and your chart to help you find ways to overcome challenges and find ways to balance your life.

I am a licensed therapist dedicated to helping adults navigate life’s challenges with clarity, confidence, and compassion. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. I believe everyone has the capacity for growth, healing, and fulfillment, and therapy can be a powerful step toward reaching that potential. I work with women and men who are managing stress, anxiety, perfectionism, or significant life transitions such as parenthood, career shifts, or relationship changes. Many of my clients are striving to balance multiple roles while also wanting to prioritize their own happiness and well-being. In our work together, I may use different modalities such psychodynamic, cognitive, humanistic, and group therapy to meet each client’s unique needs. We may explore underlying patterns, identify and shift unhelpful thought processes, and build on existing strengths. My role is to support clients in gaining insight, developing effective coping tools, and creating healthier ways of thinking, feeling, and relating. Clients often leave therapy with a deeper sense of self, improved resilience, and the confidence to make meaningful changes. My mission is to empower both women and men to move beyond what holds them back and build lives of balance, purpose, and fulfillment.

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.

Welcome to Divine Mind Services and Consulting, PLLC- “I’m a therapist specializing in evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to help individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges. My focus is on creating a safe, supportive space where we can work together to build healthier relationships, manage emotions, and create meaningful change. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, or personal growth, my goal is to empower you with the tools and insights needed to move forward with confidence.”

Life can feel overwhelming when stress, anxiety, or life challenges begin to affect your relationships, work, or sense of well-being. I am passionate about helping individuals explore emotional and behavioral wellness while strengthening the connection between mind and body. With nearly 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and outpatient settings, I have supported many people through life’s challenges. I work with adults and teens who are experiencing anxiety, stress, life transitions, trauma, or emotional difficulties. My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable exploring their concerns and developing healthier ways to cope and move forward.

Welcome! Do you feel overwhelmed? Are you struggling in your relationships, at work, or feel that nothing works out no matter how hard you try? Is it hard to be kind to yourself; see the positive things you do? It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling life as well as to take the first steps towards making a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I specialize working with individuals who are symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, and relationship concerns. Seeking therapy can feel scary, but it is a safe place to heal and grow. In our sessions together, you'll be met with compassion, kindness, and evidenced based practices to overcome the challenges you want to change.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, DSW) based in Virginia with over 15 years of experience working with adolescents and their families. I help teens who are struggling with emotional regulation, anxiety, behavioral concerns, self-esteem, and life transitions. I also support parents and caregivers who want to strengthen communication, improve family relationships, and better understand their adolescent's emotional and behavioral needs. My approach is supportive, practical, and collaborative, helping families develop the skills needed to navigate challenges and build healthier relationships.

Hello, my name is Hope! I’m excited to have the opportunity to travel beside you on this unique and personal journey! Are you struggling with having a space to share your innermost thoughts and concerns? Have you been feeling scared, confused, and possibly alone in your struggles? My goal is to provide that safe space, free of judgment, full of compassion and empathy. Congratulations on taking that first step towards self-empowerment and fulfillment! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who enjoys working with teens and adults. As a mental health professional, I have over 10 years of experience in the counseling field and 20 years in the mental health field. My experience includes intensive in-home counseling, working in inpatient settings, and conducting group therapy at a partial hospitalization program. My expertise is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy techniques, and Solution Focused Therapy. My focus is on assisting clients with becoming more assertive with communication, being able to challenge negative thoughts that arise in your mindset, along with learning coping strategies to manage symptoms of anxiety. Together, we will identify your process patterns and seek to realign them with your true authentic self. Counseling can foster a foundation for building and implementing positive ways to develop emotional, mental, and physical stability to create a well-balanced life. If you are ready to take the next step towards this rewarding goal, I am eager to begin this venture with you! Contact me for a free 15-minute consultation to embark on this incredible journey!

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, and welcome to a safe space for you to be able to express your thoughts and feelings. I am here to support you on your healing journey, provide validation, and help you grow by educating, processing, and calling out behaviors and areas in need of growth. In this walk, you are not alone. I am ready to walk with you.

Hey there, I'm Angel. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to juggle multiple tasks? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Do you feel misunderstood or confused about your gender or sexual orientation in a world of conformities? Are you experiencing minority stressors, micro-aggressions or racism within the workplace, at home or in your community? Whether you're dealing with vocational stressors, relationship issues, or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary or taboo but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hiccups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!

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.

My name is Dave Rogers, and I have been counseling professionally for over 30 years. I have worked at inpatient and residential treatment centers for Eating Disorders, and addictions, and as you can imagine - worked with families and loved ones impacted by these extremely difficult problems. I am so fortunate to have worked with gifted teams of professionals who taught me everything I know. I have also worked extensively as an outpatient therapist since 2011 when I opened my private practice. I heard a statement early in my career that impacted my practice of therapy greatly: "People don't care what you know, until they know you care". Research continues to verify that the quality of the therapy relationship is the foundation for all the other work. So - I do my very best to make a comfortable and supportive relationship from the start, because people often come to therapy with apprehension, fear, or bad experiences with therapy that cause them to be reluctant, or hesitant to open up and address their struggles and pain. One of my early goals in therapy is to listen so well, that the client says "you get me". I do my best to help clients heal, change, grow, and work toward contentment with themselves and life, as much as possible.

Welcome! I came to this work a little differently than some. After spending 16 years in my first career, I found myself sitting across from a therapist for the first time. That experience changed my life. It gave me not only a new perspective on myself but also a deep desire to help others in the same way. So, I made a big leap: I went back to school to become a therapist myself. Since then, it’s been over two decades of meaningful, often humbling work. I spent 21 years in community-based mental health and substance abuse treatment, and I was fortunate to serve as a contracted therapy provider for the Department of Defense—work that gave me a profound respect for the strength and resilience of those who serve. I’ve also worked in private group practice and provided therapy in intensive outpatient programs in Canada, gaining experience with a wide range of individuals and challenges along the way. In November 2021, I opened my own private practice. It’s been an incredible privilege to support individuals and couples in this more personal setting, and I truly value the relationships I build with each client. If you’re considering therapy, I want you to know you're not alone—and change really is possible.

As a Board-Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia, my hope is to engage in a collaborative therapeutic alliance with each individual & couple: fostering self-efficacy, developing new coping skills, focusing on strengths, and finding solutions that support your journey for self-discovery and overall healing. Using a framework of Person-Centered Therapy with techniques derived from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solutions-focused Therapy & Mindfulness-based Techniques, will help you learn to manage reactions to challenges as you integrate new perspectives into your life.

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.

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 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 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.

Renee Tong, LCSW, LISW is a highly skilled and compassionate clinical therapist dedicated to providing exceptional mental health care and support to adults over age 18, and seniors and is LGBTQ-friendly. Her private practice began in 2007. With a wealth of experience and a profound understanding of human behavior, Renee is committed to helping her clients navigate life's challenges and achieve personal growth. Renee earned her Master's degree in Social Work from Barry University, Florida, equipping her with a solid foundation in evidence-based therapeutic techniques and theories. She went on to obtain her clinical licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), demonstrating her commitment to professional excellence and ethical practice. She is currently licensed in the following states: Florida, Arizona, Virginia, Massachusetts, North Carolina, South Carolina, Washington, Oregon, Ohio, and Kansas. Throughout her career, Renee has successfully assisted clients from diverse backgrounds and with a wide range of mental health concerns. Her expertise spans various areas, including life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, self-esteem struggles, Stress and worry, Caregiver stress, PTSD, Trauma, ACOA (Adult Child of Alcoholic or Drug Addict), addictions, Relapse Prevention, Dual Diagnosis, Grief, Shame and Guilt, Abandonment issues, Betrayal, Codependency, Toxic Relationships, Postpartum Depression, and Infertility-informed. By employing a holistic and client-centered approach, Renee fosters a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. Renee's therapeutic style combines empathy, active listening, and collaboration, ensuring that each client's unique needs and goals are addressed effectively. She employs evidence-based interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, solution-focused therapy to promote personal insight, resilience, inner child wound work, narrative therapy, attachment style theory method along with client center humanistic approach towards positive change.