Therapists in Virginia

I’m a licensed therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion, clarity, and practical tools. I use evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to support clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and everyday stress. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, strengthen coping skills, and make meaningful changes aligned with your values. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply seeking personal growth, I’m here to help you build resilience, gain insight, and move toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.

PLEASE NOTE: I specialize in Gerontology. I believe in empowering older adults by fostering independence, resilience and sense of identity. Aging is a journey that should be met with dignity, respect, and opportunities for growth. By actively listening, providing tailored support, and encouraging self-determination, I can help older adults maintain their autonomy and confidence. Resilience is nurtured through meaningful connections, purposeful activities, and a focus on strengths rather than limitations. I am committed to honoring an individual's experiences, celebrating their uniqueness, and creating environments where people feel valued and capable. I challenge stereotypes about aging and promote a vision of later life filled with possibility and fulfillment.

I am a licensed mental health professional with several years of experience working with individuals facing a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions. My goal is to create a supportive and safe environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to take an active role in their healing process. I employ evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused techniques, and person-centered therapy, to help individuals gain insight into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we work to identify patterns that may be holding them back and develop practical strategies to improve their overall well-being. I am committed to meeting each client where they are and guiding them toward meaningful, lasting change at their own pace.

Dr. Norman Quintero is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over seven years of clinical experience supporting individuals and couples through life’s emotional, relational, and personal challenges. He is licensed to practice in California, Texas, Virginia, Louisiana, and Florida, and provides compassionate care for clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief, stress, anger management, and self-esteem concerns. Dr. Quintero’s approach is warm, collaborative, and client-centered. He integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with humanistic principles to help clients better understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where they feel heard, respected, and validated. His goal is to help clients gain clarity, develop healthier coping skills, strengthen relationships, rebuild confidence, and move toward meaningful and lasting change in their lives.

Hello, My name is Tierra Evans. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work Supervisor and Mental Health Clinician. I have been a licensed Social Worker for nine years and counting. I am a Texas native and have traveled extensively. I received my Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), strengths-based therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and other therapeutic modalities. My passion is to nurture and cultivate positive energy and high vibrations throughout my life journey. Services are provided within a short-term, goal-oriented framework. Treatment typically consists of 6–8 sessions. Progress is formally reviewed around session six, at which point the client and therapist mutually determine whether to conclude services, extend treatment for an additional time-limited phase, or pursue other appropriate options.

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.

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.

I bring over 25 years of experience in mental health ranging from addiction to trauma. I believe in a strength-based approach in providing clients support because everyone has skills, talents, and abilities to tap into to assist them in overcoming life’s challenges. I am a firm believer in a non-judgmental approach to therapy so you the client feel safe, accepted, and, empowered. I use a broad array of therapy techniques such as trauma-informed care, strength-based, systems, solution-focused or brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, grief therapy, and much more. I am a huge proponent of empowerment and people taking control of their lives with healthy and safe boundaries. I especially enjoy working with men who have engaged in domestic violence with their partners and to help them take responsibility for their actions and the harm they have caused, and to help end the cycle of violence. “Courage doesn’t happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life.” ― Shannon L. Alder

Greetings, I am Melissa. I know what it's like to feel you have no one who hears you when you speak. I know what it's like to feel you have no one to trust to confide in who is a good listener and not judgemental. I've been there, I know it's hard. I am here to listen. I am here to confide in with a non judgemental attitude. I would love to have the opportunity to help you find yourself and become the best version of yourself. All I ask is for you to be open to positive change and brave enough to take the first step and reaching out. I know sometimes it's hard to seek and ask for help but you can do it! I am experienced in using CBT and DBT therapy techniques to help you address your struggles with anxiety and depression. Looking forward to walking with you as you start your journey to better and stronger health!

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for the Commonwealth of Virginia. I have been practicing for 23 years with a wide range of experience. I have worked primarily with adults diagnosed with a serious mental illness. I very much enjoy helping people overcome struggles and become the best person they can be. I am semi-retired but continue to offer counseling as a way to contribute to the health of our society.

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 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.

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 Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about walking alongside individuals who want to heal, grow, and build healthier ways of navigating life’s challenges. Over the years, I have worked with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and difficulties in relationships, and I have seen firsthand how meaningful therapy can be when it feels both safe and effective. I believe that therapy should be a space where you feel understood and supported while also learning concrete tools to create change in your everyday life. My role is to listen as well as help you gain insight, shift unhelpful patterns, and strengthen your confidence in managing stressors. I bring warmth, compassion, and evidence-based strategies to my work so that clients leave sessions feeling both validated and equipped to move forward.

My name is Evelyn Lieb, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) serving clients in Washington, DC, and Virginia. I believe that healing begins in a space where you feel genuinely heard, understood, and accepted. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs and goals. I specialize in working with adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, OCD, ADHD, life transitions, relationship challenges, and chronic stress. Together, we will explore the patterns that may be keeping you stuck while building practical skills to help you move toward the life you want. I draw from evidence-based approaches, including person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed interventions, always adapting treatment to fit the individual rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you are facing a difficult life transition or have been carrying emotional pain for years, I am committed to creating a supportive, respectful environment where lasting growth and healing can occur.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Florida and the proud owner of On Point Counseling LLC. I am also licensed in Indiana, Virginia, and Massachusetts. I received my Masters degree from Florida International University and have been practicing for over 8 years. I have experience working children, adolescents, and adults. My goal in therapy is to help my clients to improve the quality of their lives. My Professional Website Link: https://onpointcounselingllc.clientsecure.me/

Hey! I'm Tabby and I have experience working with children, teens and adults. I have worked in the mental health field for the past 11 years to include intensive in-home, crisis services, Substance abuse groups, and working with intellectual disabilities. I like to utilize different approaches to therapy and consider myself very person-centered and cater to the needs of my clients. I have experience in utilizing sandtray techniques, CBT, trauma, strength based approaches, and integrating other techniques to best support your goals. I work with diverse populations and backgrounds and am very motivated to helping others achieve their goals, advocate for themselves, and provide emotional support and counseling to individuals and families.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in the heart of Virginia. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University in 2020 and have been practicing as a counselor for the past six years. My approach to therapy is grounded in validation, compassion, and hope. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and that even when things feel overwhelming or uncertain, you have the ability to create meaningful change. My role is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to move toward the person you want to be. I work primarily with adolescents and young adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem, parenting, and the many changes that come with different stages of life. I especially value working with individuals and families who may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of where to begin. Therapy doesn’t have to be about “fixing” who you are. Sometimes, it’s about understanding yourself more deeply, recognizing your strengths, and finding the tools and confidence to move forward. Wherever you are in your journey, I would be honored to walk alongside you.

Pamela Byrd LMSW LCSW My approach to Behavioral Intervention Practices consists of acknowledgment and enhancing of human well-being and promoting and implementing strategies to assists individuals with providing the focus of empowerment support and guidance towards primary and associated factors of complexity or concern through creating Strength Based Modalities to assist with behavioral needs, mood adjustments anxiety, and depression amongst other categories and life stressors and various factors to consider upon behavioral needs

I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist in Virginia and Maryland. I maintain my National Certified Counselor certification and possess a Clinical Dependency Counselor-Intern License in Texas. I have achieved an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, an MS in Psychology, and an MS in Organizational Psychology. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and groups. I employ cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic, client-centered therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and various modalities as part of my humanistic approach. I additionally focus on methods of Gestalt, Gottman, Existentialism, mindfulness, and family systems while carefully considering cultural concerns, sexuality, and practices. I have experience working with court-mandated clients with various criminal offenses, anxiety, depression, trauma-related diagnoses, and other life experiences.

I thank you for the opportunity to collaborate with you in your healing journey. My desire is to help you through life’s struggle, and challenges. My goal is to provide authentic, compassionate, and nonjudgmental quality care. Building a therapeutic relationship is the first step in the treatment process. I offer person centered therapy specific to your individualized and unique experience, in order to assist you through the struggles of life. I am a passionate and empathetic therapist with strong counseling abilities and an understanding of interpersonal familial relationships. I utilize a goal- oriented, strength-based approach with my clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a graduate of the University of Georgia and have been practicing for 5 years. Thank you for taking the first step and for allowing me to be part of this very important journey.

My name is Julianne Toy, and I am a licensed therapist with a strong foundation in both education and social work. I earned my Master’s in Education from Concordia University of Portland in 2015, followed by a Master’s in Social Work from Simmons University in 2018. Having training in both fields has been invaluable — it allows me to be creative and flexible in my approach, integrating educational strategies with therapeutic interventions to enhance understanding, growth, and lasting change. I have worked with individuals across the lifespan — from early childhood through older adulthood — and in a wide variety of settings, including homes, schools, hospitals, jails, courts, community agencies, and offices. I also have extensive experience providing teletherapy in several formats, ensuring accessible and personalized care for clients wherever they are. Before becoming a therapist, I worked as a case manager and volunteered for many years with at-risk youth and individuals with developmental disabilities. I also served as a crisis therapist, offering brief interventions and support to individuals at imminent risk. Over the course of my seven years as a therapist, I have provided both individual and group counseling, helping clients navigate a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and relational challenges. In recent years, my work has focused on private practice therapy with individuals and couples. Through this work, I have deepened my expertise and integrated several evidence-based therapeutic models to help clients improve their mental health, strengthen their relationships, and build more fulfilling lives. I currently work primarily with adolescents and adults, guiding them toward greater self-awareness, resilience, and well-being.

Tileda Brown, LCSW, CSAC Licensed Clinical Social Worker | Certified Substance Abuse Counsel | Individual Therapy Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 8 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s most challenging transitions. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance abuse and self-esteem. My approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in evidence-based practices, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy , Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based interventions. I work with adults navigating issues such as: Struggling with Depression Anxiety and panic disorders Grief and loss Relationship and attachment issues Life transitions (divorce, career change, etc.) In our work together, I strive to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and empowered. Healing isn’t linear, and I believe therapy should move at your pace. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply seeking deeper self-understanding, I’m here to support you.

I am a licensed independent clinical social worker in the District of Columbia and a licensed certified clinical social worker in the states of Virginia (with pending licensure in other states). I have over 16 years of independent clinical experience providing, private practice services, counseling services for the federal government and counseling individuals and families in non-profit and medical settings, military members and their families.   I have provided psycho-education groups, professional development consultations/presentations, psychosocial assessments and multi-therapeutic counseling to clients with a variety of mental health and substance abuse disorders.

Welcome! I'm Zena Jones 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, 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.

Hello, My core belief is that all people are created equal; therefore, everyone has equal right to leave to their fullest potential. I earned my master’s in social work from University of Maryland, School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD in 2010. I have Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical (LCSW-C) in MD, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in DC and Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) in VA. For more than 10 years, I have utilized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), humanistic, person-center, strength-focused therapy and other psychotherapy Intervention to assess, plan, implement and evaluate individual or family in diverse therapy environment. I am commented to assist people to live life to their fullest potential because we all have one life to live, and we deserve to be in peace with ourselves. I have worked with people in LGBTQ+ community both in individual and couple session. I am WPATH qualify to write gender affirming surgery letter.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, proudly continuing a family legacy of service and commitment to helping others. With over a decade of experience, I have worked in a variety of clinical settings, including hospitals, home health, outpatient centers, and most recently within a K–12 school system. Throughout my career, I have considered it a true privilege to support individuals during some of their most vulnerable and transformative moments. I specialize in individual therapy and am now opening my practice to teens. My recent experience as a School Social Worker allowed me to provide direct therapeutic services to students across all grade levels, supporting them through anxiety, depression, academic stress, peer and family challenges, and crisis situations. This chapter feels especially meaningful, as I originally pursued my education with the goal of becoming a School Social Worker. In many ways, this transition represents a full-circle moment in my professional journey. I bring the insight, developmental understanding, and collaborative approach from the school setting into my practice, offering teens and their families compassionate, structured, and informed support.

I am Shannon Shackford, a licensed therapist. Welcome, I'm so glad you're here. Taking the first step toward therapy is a powerful act of self-care, and I want to acknowledge the strength it takes to explore support. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, navigating big life changes, or simply needing a space to be heard, this is a safe and supportive place for you. My approach is compassionate, down-to-earth, and tailored to meet you where you are. Together, we'll work at your pace to uncover clarity, build resilience, and reconnect you with your sense of direction and self. If you're ready to begin-or just exploring what therapy could look like-I invite you to schedule a session. I'd be honored to walk alongside you in your journey.

Meet Tara Zandi, LICSW – a compassionate and highly skilled therapist with over a decade of experience supporting adults, children, and families. Tara holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and an MSW in Clinical Social Work, blending deep academic knowledge with practical expertise. She’s trained in a powerful range of evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, PCIT, EMDR, and even yoga for children—offering a holistic and personalized approach to healing. Whether working through depression, anxiety, or behavioral health challenges, Tara meets her clients with empathy, insight, and culturally sensitive care. Fluent in English and Farsi, Tara creates a welcoming space for diverse communities to feel seen, heard, and supported on their journey toward wellness.

Hello, I’m Christina Hoffman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I provide a supportive, collaborative space for clients to explore challenges and create positive changes in their lives. I have experience using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques, and I work with individuals facing anxiety, depression, work-related stress, and family stress. Therapy is a journey we take together, and I see us as a team working toward your goals. My approach is compassionate, practical, and tailored to your unique needs, helping you develop skills and strategies to navigate life’s challenges and improve overall well-being. I look forward to supporting you as we work together to create meaningful, lasting change

My name is LaTonya Thomas and I am a license clinical social worker. I have been in the mental health field for over 14 years and has worked with clients with anxiety, depression, grief, life transition and many more diagnosis. My goal is to help the clients become aware of what may be going on with them and ways to handle it.

Hi there, my name’s Ephraim Tokar. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. My specialties consist of relationships, men’s issues, career counseling, and psychosomatic illnesses. I received my Bachelors degree in Child Psychology, working initially with the adolescent population before transitioning over to adults. I then received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Whether it's individuals or couples, I'm happy to get to work with whomever comes my way. I do my best to facilitate a warm, trusting environment. Looking forward to meeting with you soon!

With 15 years of experience as a marriage and family therapist, I specialize in helping create lasting, positive change through integrating Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Solution Focused Brief Treatment (SFBT) to offer a comprehensive, evidence-based approach tailored to each client's unique needs. My work with clients emphasizes building emotional resilience, improving communication, and fostering deep connections. I am passionate about helping clients achieve their goals and develop the tools they need for meaningful, fulfilling lives.