45 therapists in Virginia matching your needs

Hey there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that practices Behaviorism. What that means is that we will work together to target behaviors that can help you improve your current mental state. I want to help you see quantifiable progress from our work together. A little about me: My name is Suzanne. I’m a person that loves the sun, being by water and dogs! In my free time I volunteer with a Great Dane rescue. I enjoy those huge, goofy, couch potato dogs. I’ve moved around a lot and went to school at Syracuse University and graduate school in Washington D.C. I have two decades of experience specializing in trauma, grief, relationship issues, anxiety, addiction and depression. I’ve been heavily involved in working with military, veterans and first responders. You are the subject matter expert in what you need and I will supply tools, support, information and backing. We will work together on making goals and action steps on how to reach your goals.

Hi, My name is Kristel. I am an LCSW who provides talk therapy via Telehealth. I am a multifaceted individual with a deep well of life experiences that inform my perspective. As a former military brat and spouse, I've intimately understood the complexities of life's transitions. My journey has taken me from being a stay-at-home mom to transitioning back into the workforce, granting me a unique appreciation for both roles. I'm a devoted mother of two children, and my path has been marked by significant challenges, including the struggle with infertility and profound grief. I proudly identify as a feminist and supporter of the LGBTQ+ community. These aspects of my identity deeply influence my approach to life and work. With a background in working with families, individuals, and children, I bring a wealth of experience. My personal journey has shaped my empathetic, compassionate, and inclusive perspective, which I offer as a source of support and understanding to those I work with.

Hello, My name is Cindy Bill and I am a licensed clinical social worker in Virginia, Delaware and Illinois. It is my hope that I can come alongside you to aid in the challenges that life may be presenting to you. We can all feel overwhelmed by life stressors. It is my purpose to help you find answers that will work for you in your life and help you create your own life worth living.

Hello, thank you for taking the time to explore my page. You are making the right decision! My name is Amia Taylor, and I am an experienced clinician who enjoys working with people of all ages, experiences, and backgrounds. I have expertise in supporting those with anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma. I aim to create a therapeutic space that allows for genuine authenticity and healing by tailoring sessions to each client. Take the first step towards empowerment, understanding, and peace of mind by scheduling a consultation to connect and see if I am a good fit for you. I lead with a compassionate, trauma-informed, strength-based, and person-centered approach. Outside the therapy space, I enjoy arts and crafts, aromatherapy (especially a great-smelling candle!), and laughing with loved ones.

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience who is licensed in both Virginia and North Carolina. I am currently providing individual therapy with adults. I take a client centered approach to help people identify their biggest stressor and then work with them to find a way to address and alleviate that stressor. One of my favorite moments is when the client begins to realize they can do all of this on their own and they can fly through life.

Welcome! With over 18 years of experience and a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology granted at the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico, I am best positioned to serve individuals and families navigating challenges such as family conflicts, trauma, PTSD, and anxiety. My therapeutic expertise extends across various cultural contexts, having practiced in Puerto Rico and Massachusetts, and currently holding active licenses in Maryland and Virginia.

Welcome! The Ebbs and Flows of Life are something we all experience. We flow towards our hopes and dreams, while other times we may flow away. When your life ebbs it is like you are struggling against the current, and fighting your way through the current to grasp what is important to you. Perhaps the times you are flowing away are a result of relationship concerns, addiction, past trauma, anxiety or living with negativity. Like large rocks under the water, you may not be able to see them but they are creating obstacles in achieving your goals while potentially impacting both your health and well-being. I believe that by taking this step in seeking help you are interested in moving forward back to what is important to you. My role is to help you on your journey.

Life can be hard and just "raggedy" at times. I know and I get it. For some, reaching out for help is the last thing you may want to do but I would love to walk with you on your journey to healing. Would you believe me if I told you that the answers you are seeking are already within you? I will merely be your guide and safe place to allow you to discover these answers. There is so much more in store for you versus the current narrative you have been rehearsing to yourself. I have a passion for “meeting people where they are” by providing crisis management, solution focused therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I believe in providing quality services and working with those by addressing a wide range of issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, poor self-esteem and stress management. I believe that therapy can assist one with identifying the root of recurring issues that challenges one’s well-being by developing healthy coping skills and gaining awareness.

Blondine Alexandre has over a decade of experience treating adults. Blondine specializes in mood disorders, trauma, fertility struggles, and chronic illness management (including pain and sleep). Blondine takes a holistic and trauma-informed approach to meet each client where they are. My specialties include: Anxiety and Panic Disorders Depression Chronic Illness, Pain and Sleep Disorders Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Infertility Life adjustment/Relationships Health Behaviors, such as insomnia, tobacco cessation, etc...

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I graduated with my Master's in Social Work degree from UNC Chapel Hill in 2007. I am passionate about meeting you where you are, helping you navigate and explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgement. If you are feeling ready to learn more about yourself and to find ways to develop more effective coping skills, reach out today!

I am a psychotherapist who works with a diverse population of people. My goal is to collaborate with individuals to assist them in achieving their therapy goal(S). My treatment modalities are cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, and Ericksonian hypnotherapy approaches. Although I used these modalities, I do not use a one size fits all approach. I am a think-out-of-the-box clinician that will often challenge clients to try approaches that may be out of their comfort zone. Some examples of my experience include working with individual clients on developing skills in coping with mental health conditions/diagnosis, life stress, finding balance, and improving self-esteem. Although I use these approaches, my clients tell me it feels like we are having a conversation as opposed to feeling like they are in a therapy session. I have a specialization in working with Veterans, LGBTQI, men, and people of color populations. However, I work with all people who are seeking mental health services. I am licensed in DC (LICSW), VA (LCSW), MD (LCSW-C), and PA (LCSW). I have BS in Human Ecology, BA in Humanities from The Ohio State University, MSW from San Jose State University and Post Masters fellowship in mental health from Stanford University.

I welcome clients from all walks of life by supporting folx work through trauma, identity issues, sexuality, executive functioning and difficulties with a fluster of emotions navigating life. I have a passion for folx identifying as Neurodivergent, BIPOC, and LGBT+. I specialize in working with folx who've faced trauma, inequality, or struggle to fit societal norms. As a queer intersectional therapist, I prioritize inclusivity, acceptance, and empowerment. I validate experiences, offering guidance to develop resilience and self-acceptance. I believe in advocacy and justice efforts, both in and outside of my office space.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker LCSW based in Indiana. I attended the University of New England for my Masters of Social Work. I have experience in group therapy, intensive outpatient therapy, and individual. I have spent most of my post master education in animal assisted therapy and trauma. enjoy working with those who have experienced anxiety, trauma, grief, shame, and imposter syndrome.

Hello! I have to start by acknowledging what you are doing right now...in this moment! I do not know the "why" you're here, but here you are and you are worth the time, strength and effort to engage with therapy. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and in this field for about 10 years, it is a honor to sit with people wherever they are currently at in life. People from diverse backgrounds, cultures, ages, personalities and even of various faiths. My goal is to hold space for holistic faith-based Christian Counseling and foster practical skills for healing.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I have 22 years of experience in the behavioral healthcare field. My personal and professional values of acceptance, compassion, collaboration, creativity, cultural sensitivity, and confidentiality allow my approach to counseling to be compassionate, kind, and respectful. I will provide a nonjudgmental environment and will treat you with dignity and respect. I am here to help you focus on, you and your individual goals for treatment.

Hello! My name is Christien Harden, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (NC and VA), Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (NC) and Certified Clinical Supervisor (NC). While attending graduate school, my focuses were the LGBT community, Severe and Persistent Mental Illness, and Substance Use Disorders. At present, I provide all services virtually. Overall, I want to talk about the matters that matter to you.

I'm a licensed clinical social worker who prides herself on helping clients develop healthy relationships with themselves. Enjoys identifying herself as a big nerd that mixes her knowledge acquired from her Master of Social Work degree and a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice, specializing in Criminal Investigation to teaching client nuggets of information that can assist them via the healing journey. Recently have embarked on obtaining a Doctorate Degree focused on Trauma Informed Practices.

I am Dr. Karnesha L. Smith a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who attained a Master of Social Work degree, with a concentration in mental health, from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2012. In 2020, I earned my Doctorate in Social Work from Capella University. I have been a practicing clinician for over ten years and believe in building rapport with clients and meeting them where they are. “Come as you are, I will meet you there, and we will figure it out together” is something I often tell my clients, especially those nervous about the therapeutic process. I intentionally create a safe space to ensure my clients are at ease and comfortable in vulnerable moments. I am trained in a myriad of treatment modalities, I am a subject matter expert in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.

Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I live in Virginia Beach, Va and am licensed in Virginia, Utah, and Nevada. I received my MSW at The Catholic University of America and have been practicing therapy for 6 years. I feel that therapy is a gift you give yourself. I work online as a telehealth therapist. I enjoy meeting you where you are at and helping you get through the rough spots, whether it's finding your voice, identifying the obstacle and need for change, or just understanding from a different perspective. I work mainly with clients who have experience with anxiety, depression, and trauma in their life.

Khalilah has always known that her role in the Mental Health Industry was a “calling” not just a choice. Khalilah is passionate about assisting her clients with improving their quality of life and daily functioning during the most delicate and vulnerable episodes in their lives. Khalilah assists adults, couples and families with developing coping strategies, mental health/interpersonal skills, and techniques to mitigate life stressors and mental health symptomology that negatively impact personal functioning and quality of life. Khalilah is a trauma treatment specialist and focuses on the effective treatment for those that have endured sexual, physical, emotional, childhood and domestic abuse. Khalilah utilizes evidenced based psychotherapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Attachment Theory, Psychodynamic Theory and Family Systems Theory. However, Khalilah would consider herself to be an Integrative Psychotherapist, which means that Khalilah utilizes a variety of orientations and therapies according to the client’s individual needs.

Hello, and congratulations on the first step of your mental health journey! Looking for a therapist can be overwhelming, so let me tell you a little about what you can expect in sessions with me. I became a therapist to help others find healing and create a life they enjoy. My clients often describe my sessions as accepting, validating, and educational. I want to help you explore your emotions, gain insights, and develop realistic coping skills. I work with you as a team to help you identify areas to improve and learn practical skills for a positive impact on your life. You are the expert on you, but you don't have to do it alone.

I'm here to offer professional support and guidance. I am a compassionate and an insightful counselor. I have a Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree in Social Work. I have been a social worker for 20 years and worked in many different settings in the social work field. I have experience working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, codependency and trauma.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is patient, attentive, and empathic to my clients. I have over 10 years of experience working within the senior and adult mental health community. I foster a therapeutic environment where adults, seniors, and caregivers feel understood, valued, and supported in their unique life circumstances. I have a Master's of Social Work from the University of South Carolina.

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.

My name is Wisline and I am a licensed clinical social worker with nine years of experience, I specialize in providing therapeutic support to individuals across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, adults, and couples. My expertise encompasses a range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, school-related issues, and marital problems. Through evidence-based interventions and a compassionate approach, I strive to empower my clients to navigate life's difficulties and cultivate resilience. My extensive experience allows me to tailor my therapeutic interventions to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual or couple I work with.

Hello, I am Dr. Carrington L. Chatham, a clinical social worker with over ten years of experience working in various settings, including community mental health, acute psychiatric care, and veteran affairs. I am dedicated to serving a diverse clientele, including individuals struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, and those facing significant life transitions. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Positive Psychology, tailored to meet each client's unique needs. I aim to empower my clients to overcome their challenges, build resilience, and achieve their personal and emotional well-being goals.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who specializes in mental health. I am qualified to work with all ages. I love working with the elderly, couples who suffer from PTSD, depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. I have experience working with the severely mentally ill for more than thirty years. But my passion is the elderly. They do not get the attention they deserve, in my opinion. Considering that they have worked and contributed to society most of their lives.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Atlanta Georgia who has been practicing Social Work for over 10 years. I'm able to work with both youth and adults to help them navigate whatever life stressors they are currently facing. Anxiety, Depression and Trauma are some areas I have worked in throughout my career and feel confident I can help you in those areas!

My goal is to help you uncover your strengths, build values-based coping strategies, and embark on a journey of personal growth. In doing this work, I have discovered that the best way to move through emotional pain is to allow yourself to feel it. That can be incredibly overwhelming but with caring and consistent support, it becomes manageable. It is deeply healing to be heard and cared for in those vulnerable states and to understand that by attending to early emotional injuries, a path toward an authentic connection to yourself and others is not only possible, but achievable.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Virginia. I received my Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. I have worked in behavioral health and healthcare arenas for over thirty years. This includes experience in oncology, hospice care and all the aspects of providing social support in a Level I trauma center. Over the past few years I have focused exclusively on the provision of therapy for adult clients of all ages and walks of life.

Hello, I am Joe and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker, with the ability to serve those located throughout the United States. My aim to to ensure that each and every session be approach with comfort, finding solutions and getting you to feel better with whatever associated problem you are experiencing. It may be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. We can work together to find a solution to getting you to feel better!

Hello I am Laura Cahill! I am a passionate, energetic, and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a love for the art of engagement in the work of therapy. Do you feel like your emotions have taken over and pushed you out of the driver's seat in life? In life, we often experience challenges, unexpected stress and transitions, trauma, hurt, grief and loss. Understandably, we may struggle with powerful emotions that seem to almost overtake us. Part of the human experience is wanting to feel in control of our inner and outer lives. And when our natural emotional responses to difficult experiences and circumstances threaten that sense of control, we may find ourselves fighting our feelings. It’s time to step back from the battle-not by retreating, but by re-framing. Our emotions and feelings are not our enemies, they are messengers. This is where our work begins. We will focus on how to hear those messages by learning the skills needed to hear, manage and interact with these feelings to help calm the turmoil that life has taken on, understand and recover from the past, and to be fully present to our current experiences. To have the opportunity to create a life that is built on your terms and not defined by what has happened to you. Entering into the world of therapy can feel overwhelming and a bit scary (well done making it this far). I applaud your bravery and commitment to your process of healing and recovery and I would be honored to have the opportunity to get to know you better and to be a part of this journey with you.

I have worked in the mental health field since 2005. I am trained in EMDR and working towards being EMDR certified. I bring the concepts of mind and body interconnections to the therapeutic space. I am proud to work with people of diverse backgrounds including all ethnicities, sexual orientations, and gender identities.

Glimmer- verb shine faintly with a wavering light. It is my most sincere belief that all beings deserve to live a life worth living. And it is my belief that ability is already inside you. As your therapist I am here to simply help you uncover that which is already there. I invite you to become curious about yourself in the safe container of our sessions so that you can cultivate self-compassion in this process. I draw from my education, training and personal experiences in my work with clients. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Florida and specialize in recovery from addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem & self-worth. My approach is holistic with an emphasis on the mind-body connection. I am a 200-hour registered yoga teacher with the Yoga Alliance governing body.

Hi this is Carol. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker in eight states. My career started in Pennsylvania where I attended Chestnut Hill College and received my Master's in Counseling Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy Option. It continued in upstate Pennsylvania and New York where I attended SUNY University of Buffalo and received my Master of Social Work Degree. I capped those off with a Psy.D. from Cal Southern University, Magnum Cum Laude 2012. I hold an LCSW in PA, VA, NC, TX, and LI. I hold an LISW-CP in South Carolina, and LICSW in RI and MA.

My clinical experience has been providing individual therapy services to adolescents, adults and seniors. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief and family issues. My goal is to create a space where clients can authentically express themselves without fear of judgment or misunderstanding and to empower individuals to present their true selves confidently to the world. I aim to help clients embrace all parts of themselves as they heal and grow. You are the narrator of your story and I am here to guide and help support you through your journey.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Work, Latasha provides a therapeutic approach to adolescents and adults who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, and stress in their daily routine. You do not have to go through this journey alone. It is important to have a safe, confidential, and comfortable space to work through any challenges or stressors you are currently experiencing. My goal is to create a safe, warm and compassionate space that allows you to build confidence and skills to face daily life stressors. Reaching out to begin therapy can be intimidating and scary! My approach is relaxed and supportive, and my goal is to work with you to create self-awareness and build coping skills in support of being able to manage everyday life.

As an Indigenous person, female entrepreneur, partner, parent, and constant pursuer of knowledge, I know what it's like to be so busy that your struggles, traumas, stressors, etc. feel isolating. My whole life has been a passionate healing journey to understand how to tap into the body's natural ability to heal itself and share that with as many people as I can.

It can be really tough to reach out for help - sometimes tough just making that first call for an appointment can give us some relief. Hi, I'm Terry Pope and I love helping folks on their journey to feeling better! My job as your therapist is to assist you in setting achievable goals and creating a path to get there! I have 25 years of experience in helping empower folks to live their best life! I really enjoy the unique experience of building a therapeutic relationship with clients and watching the process of change take place! Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, having problems communicating in your relationships or just feeling anxious and/or depressed, together we'll get you on the way to feeling better and living the life you deserve.!

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

I am licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia with 6 years of professional experience. I am a mother to three adult children and a Mimi to my two young granddaughters. As a child, I always wanted to be a therapist and have always held a deep love for people. I love nothing more than to help people to process their lives and make changes that lead to peace and happiness. I see therapy as a way to encourage you to invest in yourself and I work as a cheerleader/guide in your life. I feel that it is a gift to walk through the darkest days of people's lives and to have the honor of watching them walk out the other side, stronger and more resilient.

Hi! I am glad you are here! My name is Sue Ann McCray and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated with my Masters in Social Work from Boston University in 2017. I have more than 7 years of experience working with survivors of trauma due to domestic and sexual violence, anxiety, depression, and more. I also provided relief for individuals enduring grief and loss, and supported individuals on their journey towards building a new life of sobriety in an inpatient residential treatment facility. Throughout my career, I haved provided both individual and group therapy, as well. The most important thing to me is providing an environment of compassion acceptance, warmth, and respect that allows my clients to gain insight, self-efficacy, and empowerment while working toward an ultimate goal of growth and healing. Sometimes life can be overwhelming and stressful and sharing these burdens can help relieve some of that distress. As we walk together on your journey toward healing, I'll be your guide as you face challenges and struggles along the way.

Greetings, I'm Kassandra LaRoche, a licensed clinical social worker available in Maryland, Virginia, and DC. Specializing in trauma, I help individuals navigate life's challenges, addressing concerns like mood, anxiety, relationships, and self-care. While many clients face PTSD, my support extends to anyone seeking understanding, seeking to enhance their lives, and fostering a sense of value and respect. I prioritize creating a space where you can be heard and supported. Your journey to improved well-being begins here.

Hello my name is Constance,
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of Virginia, Maryland, DC and Florida. I have 9 years of experience employed in behavioral health facilities, outpatient therapy clinics, correctional centers, and also providing medical social work/ therapy to oncology, emergent, and crisis patients in the hospital setting. Focusing on the client through a strength-based approach, building resilience and rapport is key in obtaining a therapeutic relationship and striving for successfully outcome. My professional experience includes working with adolescents & adults with minor to severe mental illness, survivors of traumatic experiences, individuals with major medical conditions, suicidal ideations, domestic violence, substance misuse, and crisis management.

I feel that clients shouldn't have to be in therapy forever! While co-creating this process with you, I strive to balance my active listening with imparting active, hands-on techniques to help you reclaim your narrative and overcome obstacles in your path. I feel it's about more water rather than less soda, so to speak, and take both a clinical and holistic approach to helping you enhance alignment and experience deeper fulfillment in your journey. Along with my LCSW, I am trained in EMDR, certified in Theta Healing, Reiki, Transformational Life Coaching, and Therapeutic Touch, and Master Practitioner certified in Neuro Linguistic Programming, Hypnotherapy, and Time Line Therapy. I feel I provide a safe space where shame and judgements are left at the door, and we will explore your wants, needs, and feelings with curiosity and compassion. I feel it's very much a co-created process, as you know more about you than I ever will. The work is also far more about our uncovering your truth than you adopting mine. With that said, I have a wide array of modalities and approaches I feel I have quite dialed in, and we can collaboratively determine which tools and approaches best suit your needs. My hope is that our work together will help you feel not only hear and validated, but also empowered and aware of how to eat the elephant on your own going forward. I see this work as us walking side by side, with you gradually taking the lead with me supportively in your corner. If you have something pressing you wish to discuss in session, that will always take precedence. My job is ultimately to actively listen and hold space. With that said, if that's all I was doing, you'd inevitably say, "Robby, you're a nice guy. But I don't know how much we're actually getting done." To that end, I feel it's far more important to determine HOW you think rather than WHAT you think. So it tends to be important for us to explore unconscious limiting beliefs and emotions along with the conscious. You can also expect to learn clear and concise action steps (ranging from mindfulness exercises to creative writing prompts to holistic practices like meditation and breathwork) to help you regulate your emotions and reclaim your narrative. I feel that many people are hesitant to engage in therapy because they perceive a stigma tied to seeking support. After all, the notion of "mentally ill" does have a negative connotation. The way I see it, though the process is not about fixing a broken thing, but rather enhancing one's alignment and fulfillment (and okay, yes, also confronting obstacles to those pieces). But if the focus is on "Where am I trying to get to and how will I know that I got there?" where our work is to simply close the gap between here and there, it can help us leave shame and judgements at the door, and perhaps even enable you to look forward to increased awareness and empowerment in your journey forward.