Therapists in Virginia

Hi, I am Nephetia and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience providing support to individuals navigating changes and challenges in life. I earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2000 and a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University in 2012. I am a compassionate and affirming therapist who strives to provide a safe and judgement-free space for clients to express themselves and utilize their strengths to achieve their goals. Decreasing negative symptoms and helping each client live healthier fulfilling lives is the ultimate goal. With me you are celebrated and encouraged to be your authentic self. Some of my strongest qualities are building strong therapeutic rapport, creating a safe place to be authentic and being empathetic. My theoretic approach is based on the belief that clients are in charge of their counseling experience so that the process is individualized. I use an integrative therapeutic approach primarily including CBT, Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing and Acceptance an Commitment Therapy. I enjoy being able to help others reach their goals and feel more emotional stability overall. I have experience assisting and supporting clients overcome and cope with depression, anxiety, grief, issues specific to women, low self-esteem and body image.

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.

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

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.

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.

Hi, I’m Krystal. From an early age, I’ve felt a strong calling to help others, and that passion continues to guide my work today. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in May 2020, after completing my Bachelor’s in Human Services. With over 10 years of experience supporting both adults and children, I’ve worked in a variety of settings, including intensive in-home services, community mental health, and private practice. These experiences have shaped my ability to meet people where they are and provide care that feels supportive, compassionate, and tailored to each individual. I truly value creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. No matter your background or what you’re going through, you don’t have to face it alone—I’m here to walk alongside you.

My name is Jennifer Grant. I am a Licensed clinical social worker. With over 20 years of experience as a therapist, I have had the privilege of supporting individuals and families through a wide range of life challenges. I work with adult clients offering a warm, compassionate, and practical approach to therapy. My areas of focus include helping clients navigate difficult life transitions, manage anxiety, cope with depression, and build healthier relationships with themselves and others. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and change, and my role is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore your experiences, gain insight, and develop effective tools for lasting change. Whether you’re facing a specific challenge or simply seeking greater balance and well-being, I am here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

My aim is to help clients navigate major life transitions, anxiety, depression, and overwhelming stress — especially when life feels uncertain, heavy, or out of control. Whether you’re dealing with a big change, emotional burnout, or financial pressure, therapy with me is a place to slow down, get grounded, and start making sense of what you’re going through. I take a warm, supportive, but direct approach to therapy. I won’t just nod and listen, I’ll help you notice patterns, challenge what’s keeping you stuck, and build practical tools so you can feel more steady, confident, and in control of your life. My background is a clinical social worker working full time in medical social work so I witness people's life change every day in major ways. This has lead me to prioritize self care and build intentional ways to help myself and others manage stress. My top self-care activities include traveling, spending quality with family and friends, seeking out thrilling adventures, discovering new RNB music, and walking. I'm hopeful that we can identify some coping skills that work for you.

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

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.

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

“All of us live only a few days and have a lot of trouble.” Throughout our lives we face loss, grief, anxiety, depression, anger, and a host of other negative experiences that impact our lives. During these difficult challenges, we can struggle to return to a “normal” level of functioning. It’s at those times we need to reach out to those with the skills to assist us. As a Licensed Clinical Social worker, I am committed to providing support and guidance to help individuals navigate this pathway. I emphasize importance of addressing habits, hurts, and hang-ups to foster mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual growth and healing. In order to facilitate change and growth, I employ different treatment methods including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to address an array of mental health issues.

I am a mental health counselor with 15 years of experience working as an individual and group therapist. My counseling style is warm, interactive, and collaborative. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and solution focused treatment approach. I work with adults who are going through a variety of life challenges and transitions.

When counseling, I look at the whole person not just the current situation. I take time to get to know you and understand your situation and/or concerns. I treat all my clients with the utmost respect and compassion. I use motivational skills to help my patients see their strengths and help them create achievable goals. I believe in breaking the big goal into smaller goals that lead to meeting that larger goal. I believe this creates positive reinforcement for my clients and improves their emotional health, during what could be a difficult time in their life. I look forward to helping you improve your mental health, one step at a time. I have 8 years of experience working with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance abuse and co-occurring.

Hi, I'm Teranesha, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Virginia. Over the past five years, I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults across inpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient settings. My experience supporting individuals through a variety of mental health challenges has strengthened my passion for helping clients build resilience, gain insight, and create meaningful change. I am especially passionate about working with teens, young adults and adults navigating anxiety, depression, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, relationship challenges, and everyday stressors. I understand that seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, and I strive to create a welcoming, supportive environment where clients feel empowered to explore their experiences and work toward their goals. My approach is collaborative, person-centered, and strength-based. Together, we will identify practical coping strategies, increase emotional awareness, and build on your existing strengths to help you navigate life's challenges with greater confidence and balance. I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward growth, healing, and emotional wellness.

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!

Olushola Abiodun Lawal, known as Shola, was born and raised in South Florida. He is a Florida State University alumnus, graduating with a Bachelor's and Master's in Social Work in 2013 and 2015, respectively. During his time at FSU, he developed an interest in substance abuse, child welfare, mental health, and life coaching. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida, Shola brings over five years of experience as a Primary Therapist, case manager, and clinical care coordinator, providing insight into various mental health disorders.

I received my Masters in Social Work, Planning, and Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University have over 20 years of experience in the field of social work, advocating and serving people with disabilities in their community. I have extensive experience working with children and adults assisting them in both English and Spanish. I received my undergraduate degree in Studio Art from Mary Washington and also work as an accomplished artist. My love for art and social work is the focus of my practice. I work in the expressive arts and EMDR and am working towards certification in both. I believe in the healing power of art and its use in mental health recovery. Art allows us to bring about change inside ourselves and can support you as you move through your distress. I believe that recovery is always possible. If you are looking for recovery and change I invite you to reach out to me, be well.

Hello there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Virginia. I attended undergrad and graduate school at Radford University, located in Radford, Virginia! I work full-time for the VA Healthcare System where I provide mental health counseling and group services to our Veterans, but offer sessions part-time in the afternoons. I strive to assist each of my clients to the best of my ability and offer my expertise surrounding numerous mental health disorder and life struggles. I hope to work closely with you as a provider that is open, accepting, and willing to work through the struggles that life can throw our way. I specialize in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, thought disorders, grief/loss, and trauma. I know that reaching out for additional mental health support can be both stressful and scary, but working with someone who is understanding, patient, and willing makes all the difference!

Hey there! I'm Paige, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in the sunny state of Florida. My passion lies in empowering individuals who are prepared to embark on a transformative journey toward a brighter future. With a wealth of experience spanning various demographics and challenges, I specialize in supporting those navigating neurodiversity (such as Autism and ADHD), trauma (including survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence), substance abuse, and the complexities of anxiety and depression.

Seeking support is a courageous first step, and I am honored to walk alongside my clients on their journey toward healing and growth. As a compassionate, empathetic, and solution-focused therapist, I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where individuals feel heard, valued, and understood. With over 13 years of clinical experience, I work with adults facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions. My approach combines evidence-based practices, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based interventions, to help clients gain insight into unhelpful patterns, develop effective coping strategies, and build on their existing strengths. I believe that meaningful change occurs when clients feel empowered to understand themselves more deeply and take intentional steps toward the life they want to create. My goal is to help you move beyond surviving and toward thriving with greater confidence, resilience, and emotional well-being

I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist who believes that meaningful change begins with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients can safely explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences while working toward their personal goals. My approach is collaborative and tailored to each individual's unique needs, integrating evidence-based therapies such as Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and EMDR. I enjoy helping adolescents and adults navigate anxiety, trauma, PTSD, substance use concerns, life transitions, and relationship challenges. Clients often describe me as approachable, genuine, and easy to talk to. I believe in meeting people where they are, recognizing their strengths, and helping them build the skills and insight needed to create lasting change and a more fulfilling life.

Hi! My name is Dr. Vicki Carter. I earned my doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Capella University, 2008. I specialize in trauma, mood and personality disorders. I have twenty years of integrative counseling experience. Integrative care speaks of treating the whole instead of individual aspects. Therefore this value speaks to exploring the physical and mental health of clients .

I live in the Hampton Roads section of Virginia with my son and our dogs. I enjoy spending time at the beach or in the water somewhere, hiking, reading, and traveling. I have been a licensed clinical social worker for over 20 years and have worked in the field of mental health both, in-patient and out-patient, for over 25 years. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)and Rational Emotive (RET) therapies to guide patients toward a greater understanding of themselves with the goal of emotional equilibrium or “balance.” The large military presence in Hampton Roads has allowed me to work with active-duty personnel and their families. I have successfully treated patients with depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, and trauma histories.

My name is Rhiannon G. Griggs, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to supporting individuals and families in navigating life’s challenges. I specialize in trauma-informed care and cognitive-behavioral therapy, with a focus on helping clients build resilience, enhance emotional well-being, and strengthen their relationships. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where you can heal, grow, and thrive.

Hello and welcome! I'm Sue Ann McCray, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Boston University in 2017 and bring over eight years of experience supporting individuals navigating a wide range of life challenges. My clinical background includes working with survivors of domestic and sexual violence, individuals coping with anxiety and depression, and those processing grief and loss. I have also had the privilege of supporting individuals in early recovery from substance use within an inpatient residential treatment setting. Throughout my career, I’ve provided both individual and group therapy. At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to creating a therapeutic space rooted in compassion, warmth, acceptance, and respect. I believe that healing begins when we feel truly seen and heard. My approach is client-centered and collaborative, aiming to foster self-awareness, resilience, and empowerment. Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. In our work together, I’ll walk alongside you as you navigate your unique path toward growth and healing—offering guidance, support, and encouragement every step of the way.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience helping adults navigate the complexities of mental health, chronic illness, trauma, and aging. Since beginning my clinical journey in 2012, I've worked in both medical and therapeutic settings, supporting individuals living with serious mental illness and those in long-term care facilities. With licenses in Georgia, Florida, Virginia, and South Carolina, and a Master of Social Work from the University of Southern Mississippi, I bring a compassionate, culturally informed, and evidence-based approach to care. I have experience in helping people cope with trauma, depression, and schizophrenia. I believe healing happens when people feel seen, heard, and supported without judgment. Whether you're seeking clarity, stability, or healing, I’m here to walk alongside you at your pace.

As a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in trauma therapy, I am committed to providing compassionate and culturally sensitive counseling to individuals, families and couples. With a deep understanding of the impact of trauma on mental health, I empower my clients to heal and thrive. I am aware how important insight into self is in order to grow.

I am a compassionate mental health counselor with over 10 years of experience supporting individuals, children, and families. I began my counseling journey through crisis hotline work and community-based advocacy, experiences that shaped my commitment to creating safe, supportive spaces for healing. My professional background includes crisis intervention, residential treatment, intensive outpatient, and outpatient care. I have experience supporting clients navigating anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and family and relationship concerns. I am especially passionate about working with children ages 8 and older, helping them develop emotional awareness, strengthen coping skills, and build resilience in ways that are developmentally appropriate and supportive.

Hi! My name is Kiara and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia. I have about 8 years of experience working with a variety of populations but I especially like working with youth and young adults. My experience is primarily in community mental health, so I’m all about coordinating care with other professionals to address the whole person. My favorite part about being a therapist is uncovering the light at the end of the tunnel along with my clients, and assuring them that there’s always hope.

Hi, I’m a licensed psychotherapist specializing in individual, marriage, and family therapy. Since 2016, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals, couples, and families on their journeys toward healing. My path began as a behavior technician, giving me practical insight into emotional and behavioral challenges. As a therapist, I help people navigate trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, emotional dysregulation, and burnout. My approach blends psychodynamic therapy, psychoeducation, and body-mind (somatic) techniques so we can explore emotional patterns, increase self-awareness, and heal the effects of stress and trauma held in the body. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in cycles, or struggling to connect with yourself or others, I offer a collaborative, trauma-informed space for deep healing and growth. I support clients with a wide range of concerns, including: Grief and loss, mood instability, and psychotic spectrum disorders Major life transitions like career changes, divorce, relocation, and new parenthood LGBTQ+ support, spiritual exploration, and existential questions Relationship and family dynamics, including co-parenting, communication, and attachment wounds Chronic pain, body image, and somatic trauma symptoms Workplace stress, burnout, perfectionism, and executive functioning challenges

Hi there, I'm Dawit. A Licensed psychotherapist with a master’s degree in clinical social work and Master Addiction Counselor with a total of 16 years of experience with adult population challenged with Substance dependence and any addiction. Every day-to-day life pulls us in many directions, and sometimes when we feel overwhelmed lose focus. You may have tried to deal with your problems, and your way may not be enough and you may not be able to deal with them on your own. Let's work together to develop a more effective plan so you can achieve your life goals. Are you struggling with your life directions due to addiction? Is it hard for you to be positively selfish and focus on your own problems as a priority? Whether you're dealing with any substance addiction or negative behavioral dependence, I'm here to help. Understanding that your way was not working and Seeking therapy is the first crucial step to make the change. You're making the right choice now. 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 hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!

Hi, I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of social work and mental health experience. I utilize evidence-based therapy models focused on my clients' strengths, abilities, and unique life experiences in efforts to improve quality of life and restore overall health and wellness. I greatly enjoy my work with clients and the reward in my work is seeing clients succeed and overcome life's challenges.

Hello, I have been a Counselor for 17 years and I love my work. I provide an organized and easy to follow process using EMDR to address the difficulties my clients are facing and help them achieve the outcomes they are looking for. I provide a calm and accepting presence for my clients as they tackle some of the biggest challenges in their life. I value the effort they are making and how important to them and their loved ones their progress is.

Brannon La Force, a Mobile, Alabama native, is a mental health professional with 35 years in the field. He holds licenses in Alabama, California, Florida, Kansas, Oregon, Virginia, and Texas as professional counselor. He completed a BA in History from Asbury University, and a MS in Counseling from the University of South Alabama. He is a PhD doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology with Walden University. He is the Owner and Senior Clinician with Brannon La Force, LPC-S & Associates, PLLC and currently lives and works abroad as a digital nomad. Mr. La Force is also an Adjunct Professor at Southern New Hampshire University where he teaches forensic psychology. In addition to owning a private practice, he has worked in community mental health, a forensic hospital, hospital emergency rooms, and inpatient psychiatric units. While the bulk of his work has been in the US, Mr. La Force has also written behavior plans for intellectually disadvantaged adults in Australia, treated genocide survivors in Rwanda, and supported sailors in the US Navy with their mental health needs on the island kingdom of Bahrain. His areas of expertise include trauma, relationships, and borderline personality disorder. He is an avid proponent of Dialectical Behavior Therapy and runs a DBT group. He also supervises associate counselors in Texas and Kansas and precepts psychiatric nurse practitioners nationwide for their psychotherapy rotation. Mr. La Force has three adult children, two of which are also counselors. He is an avid Crimson Tide fan, loves seafood and provides support to Village Health Team in western Uganda.

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.

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.

I am a clinical social worker with experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan. I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Eastern Mennonite University and my master’s degree in clinical social work from George Mason University. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, family conflict, grief and loss, peer relationships, school issues, and self-esteem. My therapeutic approach integrates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, strength-based practices, and stress management techniques. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel seen and heard while building resilience and developing effective coping skills to manage emotional distress.

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

I have always had the conscious goal of supporting others with being able to overcome their hardships and internal challenges that prevents them from being successful. I am a firm believer that in life we have all experienced some type of challenge that will impact our thoughts and emotions. For some people the challenge is more difficult than others and they will experience greater hardship and internal challenges that will send them on a spiral to the unknown. Being a therapist has always been a desire of mine to support others with understanding their thoughts, feelings, beliefs and behaviors associated with how they feel.

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of Florida, Virginia, Illinois and Massachusetts , with experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. I specialize in supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and relationship challenges. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly explore yours thoughts and emotions. I use evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness based techniques. I am passionate about supporting clients through times of change and personal growth.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Nationally Certified Counselor in Virginia, dedicated to providing culturally sensitive, trauma-informed care. Fluent in English, Arabic, and Tigrinya, I offer evidence-based therapy for individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds, addressing concerns such as trauma, depression, anxiety, anger management, and major life transitions. With advanced training in trauma-focused modalities, I support clients carrying deep emotional wounds by creating a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space for healing. I am especially committed to working with those navigating grief, trauma, interpersonal violence, marital challenges, and the long-term impact of experiences like war, immigration, and incarceration, honoring the cultural identities that shape each client’s story.

I am a Graduate of Howard University and UNC Charlotte, I have a BA in Psychology and a Masters in Social Work. I have a passion for working with individuals, couples and families who seek change to become happier, healthier and gain control over obstacles that are weighing them down. I have several years of experience in working with children, adults, and families, on a broad array of issues ranging from depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, schizophrenia, substance abuse and trauma. I provide culturally competent care and use a Strength Based Approach when working with clients. I also specialize in helping African American males deal with oppressive systems and obstacles.

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

With over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I am passionate about supporting adults and couples as they navigate life’s transitions and pursue meaningful growth. Whether you are a college student or recent graduate adjusting to a new season of life, an individual facing anxiety or depression, or a couple preparing for marriage or working to strengthen your relationship, I strive to provide guidance that feels both supportive and practical. My Christian faith shapes my personal values; however, I work with people from all backgrounds and beliefs. Faith-based perspectives are incorporated into counseling only if a client specifically desires it. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you feel heard, understood, and supported. Life transitions—whether expected or unexpected—can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Together, we can explore the challenges you are facing and work toward the emotional and personal goals that matter most to you. I have experience working with adults experiencing life changes, including college and post-college transitions, relationship challenges, marriage and premarital preparation, and parenting. I also support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and stress that often accompany these seasons of change. My background as a behavioral specialist in community mental health allows me to effectively support adults diagnosed with ADHD or autism spectrum disorder, as well as parents raising children with these diagnoses. In my work with couples, I draw from my experience as a trained Prepare/Enrich facilitator to help partners strengthen communication, navigate conflict, and build healthier, more connected relationships. When working with individuals, I primarily use a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach to address concerns such as anxiety, depression, and life transitions. My focus is on equipping you with practical tools and strategies so you can move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and resilience.

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

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

Shannon believes that every person is the expert on their own life, with the insight, strengths, and capacity to guide their own journey. She recognizes that life's challenges can leave us feeling lost, questioning who we are, what we're doing, and where we're headed. With compassion and curiosity, Shannon is committed to walking alongside her clients through those difficult moments. She provides a supportive, nonjudgmental space to explore challenges, gain clarity, and build on each person's existing strengths. Her goal is to help clients move toward greater confidence, resilience, and a deeper sense of fulfillment.

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.