Our therapists offer premarital counseling in Alexandria, VA

April Gardner is a Resident in Counseling with 4 years of experience. She works with adults (and their loved ones) dealing with a variety of mental health problems including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia and related disorders. April also has experience working with the incarcerated and addiction disorders. She has worked in settings including hospice care, bereavement, community mental health, inpatient hospital, emergency service, and private practice.

April Graduated from Liberty University with her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She specializes in solution-focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness-oriented recovery enhancement. April is non-judgmental and believes that together people can impact the world for the better.

You are the master of your future, and April will partner with you to help set goals and take steps to a better tomorrow. No matter where you have been in the past, the path to healing is only a day away. April warmly invites you to schedule an appointment!

Jenni Bivins is a Supervisee in Clinical Social Work with 3 years of experience. She is a dedicated and compassionate mental health clinician with a broad range of experience working in inpatient settings with adults facing substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, serious mental illness, and complex trauma. Her background includes supporting veterans as well as individuals with PTSD, chronic health conditions, physical disabilities, and intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as their families.

Jenni earned a Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. She brings a trauma-informed and person-centered approach to meet her clients where they are in life. Jenni specializes in guiding clients toward healthier relationships by developing communication skills and establishing healthy personal boundaries.

With a strengths-based approach, Jenni is committed to empowering individuals on their path to healing and meaningful change. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or simply ready for change, Jenni invites you to take the next step and reach out. She can help you navigate your feelings and experiences.

Patricia "Tricia" McCarty is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys helping people work through life transitions, addiction, grief/loss, chronic illness/pain, anxiety, depression, stress, and low self-esteem. Tricia uses a humanistic approach and a variety of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, strength-based, narrative, acceptance and commitment, expressive art as therapy, and positive psychotherapy. 

Tricia completed her Master of Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University. She will actively listen, help you gain perspective, explore with you what is keeping you from becoming the best version of yourself, and make a plan that will empower you to reach your goals.

“In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety” (Abraham Maslow). Sometimes what feels safe, comfortable, and familiar, is actually unhealthy; change can be hard and the unknown scary. Do you feel stuck, repeating toxic patterns or negative thinking? Have life events or stress become overwhelming or seem unmanageable? Maybe you just need a supportive space to talk about what you’re going through and how you are feeling.

Elizabeth (Liz) Malin is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 7 years of experience in treating adults, teens, and families seeking help with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem, workplace stressors, life transitions, and more.  

Liz earned her Master's degree in Counseling Education from Old Dominion University. She utilizes strengths-based, cognitive behavioral (CBT), solutions-focused (SFT), and emotionally-focused approaches to therapy. She provides a safe place where you can work with her to form a collaborative relationship to feel heard, understood, and empowered.  

Liz seeks to establish a compassionate, caring environment as a foundation for you to create positive change while gaining further insight into patterns in your life that keep you from living your best life on a daily basis. Reach out today to take the first steps to establish further support and understanding by beginning your therapeutic process. 

Gwendolyn Fisher is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has over 3 years of experience helping children and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, bipolar, oppositional defiance, trauma, PTSD, family relationships, and crisis stabilization.  

Gwendolyn earned her Bachelor's degree from Virginia Wesleyan University and her Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Gwendolyn utilizes collaborative, positive regard, solutions-focused, cognitive behavioral (CBT), person-centered, mindfulness-based, and emotionally-focused approaches to meet clients where they are, and to promote a more meaningful life.

Gwendolyn seeks to empower clients by helping them meet the goals they desire in life. With her assistance, you'll begin recognizing that you are valuable while learning to live your best life—one day at a time. 

Wendy Wasserstrom is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 9 years of social work experience. She has provided mental health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults, and she has experience providing individual and group therapy. She has worked with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, substance abuse, and family conflict. 

Wendy earned her undergraduate degree in Social Work from Florida State University and her Master’s degree in Social Work from Florida Atlantic University. She has worked in a variety of settings, providing services in the community, outpatient settings, and public schools. An area of particular passion includes working with young adults with a wide variety of presenting concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use, self-injury, trauma, and sexual assault recovery. 

Wendy utilizes a wide range of therapeutic techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, strength-based, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing. Wendy realizes that each person is unique and tailors her therapeutic approach to each client. Her approach to therapy is person-centered and involves meeting her clients where they are. She approaches clients with compassion and acceptance. Wendy believes that therapy requires vulnerability and courage and works to create a safe setting for that work to occur.

Brenda Naftel is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience. Brenda is passionate about helping young and older adults along their life journey. She has experience in anxiety, depression, domestic violence, couples, and grief.

Brenda completed her Master of Education (MEd) at Auburn Montgomery. She uses cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, and sometimes dialectical behavior techniques as the basis for most sessions. 

Along life’s journey there are times we need someone to be there. Brenda would be honored if you would allow her to be with you on life’s challenging journey. She will be your sounding board and offer you coping techniques to help you along the way.

 I believe that every individual can get through difficulties that arise in life and sometimes we need some help. I am passionate about providing a safe space for you to talk about your story.

Whether you are grieving the loss of a relationship, struggling to communicate to the important people in your life more effectively or you are unsure about how to build a stronger relationship with your child. With compassion and respect we will unearth what is getting in the way of what you want.

I use a personable and direct approach to provide solution focused counseling.

Toy Draine is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. With over 25 years of experience providing career and academic counseling to students, she specializes in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, body positivity, career counseling, work stress, domestic abuse, family conflict, grief, marital and premarital concerns, narcissistic personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, PTSD, and more. Toy works with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan.

Toy holds a Master’s in Public Health from The George Washington University and a Master’s in Counseling and Student Personnel Services from Fordham University. She utilizes a strengths-based, evidence-informed approach to help clients build resilience, navigate challenges, and work toward personal growth and relational harmony.

Life's twists and turns can leave us feeling lost and overwhelmed, but you deserve the guidance and support to navigate them. Whether addressing mental health concerns or life transitions, Toy is dedicated to creating a compassionate, safe, and empowering environment for all clients. Take the first step towards a brighter future by reaching out today.

Victoria Staten is a Supervisee in Social Work (SISW) with years of experience. She has experience practicing in a variety of clinical settings providing both inpatient and outpatient mental health services to both adolescents and adults. Victoria focuses on helping. She has experience treating individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, adjusting to life changes, challenges within relationships, and low self-esteem.

Victoria received her Master's degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and her Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Radford University. Victoria utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), and more.

Victoria wants you to know that even though you are the only one who can take steps towards taking back control over your mental health, you do not have to take those steps alone. Schedule your session today.

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Rossa Ridley is a Resident in Counseling and Qualified Mental Health Provider for adults in the state of Virginia. She has over 7 years of experience assisting adults that are seeking help with a variety of mental health issues, adjusting to life transitions, military-related issues, past incarceration, and relationship issues due to childhood trauma. 

Rossa completed her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from ECPI University, a Master of Art in Professional Counseling (Mental Health Counseling) from South University, and an advanced degree of a Master of Philosophy in Forensic Psychology. She utilizes collaborative, strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, mindfulness-based, and holistic-focused approaches within the therapeutic relationship. Rossa is also a veteran of the military which gives her the unique ability to adapt to the changing needs of those seeking help in the various transitions adults may have to maneuver in their daily lives.

Rossa strives to establish a nurturing and empathetic relationship with you to assist you with using your strengths to work through situations and/or stressors so that you can reach your goals. She believes in creating a rapport with you so that you are taking a key role in living the life you desire.

Benjii Maust is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience working with children, teens, and adults in intensive in-home, community, outpatient, and residential settings. Benjii specializes in LGBTQIA affirmation, anger management, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and managing trauma-based behaviors. His ideal client struggles with acceptance, coping mechanisms, and expressing feelings healthily. Benjii has also supported clients living with chronic illnesses who require emotional support in managing their medical needs.

Benjii received his Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. He draws on techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, compassion-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. Benjii utilizes art and play-based interventions with younger clients.

Benjii is committed to meeting you where you are in your journey and engaging with you to identify thoughts, patterns, and narratives working against you. If you are feeling stuck and looking for a change, reach out to Benjii today.

Shanita King-Miller is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisee passionate about promoting self-efficacy, resilience, and positive change. She was inspired to study social work after working in hospital settings with clients from various backgrounds. Shanita specializes in anxiety, stress, depression, anger, and coping skills.

Shanita received her Master of Social Work from Capella University. Her favorite intervention strategies used to address client needs are motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, art and play therapy, strengths-based approach, and narrative therapy.

Shanita believes in creating safe spaces for clients to share their experiences and foster and reach their maximum potential. Her goal is to support you on your journey to live a fulfilling and healthy lifestyle while recognizing the unique needs of each client. If you’re ready to take the next steps in your journey, schedule an appointment with her today.

Diego Riverick is a Resident in Counselling with 2 years of experience and a wealth of understanding. He specializes in helping people of all ages who struggle with stress, ADHD, depression, trauma, and complicated family systems. Diego has spent time in adolescent behavioral health, the school system, and with survivors of sexual violence. He comes from a diverse background and is eager to serve a broad spectrum of clients.

Diego received his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University. He uses an eclectic approach and meets his clients where they are, allowing them to guide the journey toward achieving their goals.

Diego believes everyone desires to be their best self but sometimes needs help forming that vision. If you're ready to move toward healthy change, partner with Diego and take the first steps with confidence.

Blakely Baker is a Resident in Social Work with 2 years of experience helping children, youth, adolescents, adults, and seniors with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, trauma, and substance use. Blakely has spent time working in crisis stabilization and school counseling.

Blakely received her Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. She uses a variety of clinical approaches that are targeted to client needs such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectic behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

Blakely strives to meet her clients' needs by providing a welcoming, safe, and brave space to process emotions and experiences. She cares deeply about each client's success and works to highlight strengths to overcome challenges. Blakely is ready to help you achieve your goals and conquer your battles.

Aaron is a Resident in Counseling with nearly 2 years of experience in the mental health field. He has been hit with various hardships and successes in life. This, coupled with his professional experience, enables him to equip his clients with skills to help them keep their heads up even when they feel they have fallen.

Aaron graduated with his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University. He utilizes existentialism, Gestalt theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and other counseling models.

Aaron builds meaningful relationships with clients, gives them the tools and techniques to cope with life’s challenges, and enjoys watching people come out stronger than they started. If you are ready to take the journey with Aaron, book an appointment with him today!

Arianne Eichas is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has years of experience working in the Mental Health field. Arianne has worked with individuals and their families within the Department of Human Services, residential facilities, and intensive in-home therapy. Additionally, as a Master Level Clinician, Arianne has provided individual and group therapy to children, adolescents, adults, and couples with a variety of mental health concerns in outpatient settings during her residency. 

Arianne completed both her Bachelor of Science (BS) in Human Services and her Master of Science in Education (MSEd) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Old Dominion University. Her clinical areas of focus include: anxiety disorders, depression, life transitions/stressors, grief, relationship/family issues and marriage/couple difficulties.

She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help treat individuals. Arianne understands the complexities of mental health and utilizes a variety of therapeutic techniques including person-centered, strength-based, and solution-focused approaches.

Arianne works with couples facing relationship challenges and can provide support in improving communication, connection, and conflict resolution skills. Arianne has worked with couples facing the aftermath of infidelity to repair their relationship and rebuild safety, security, and trust. Arianne utilizes a variety of therapeutic techniques and interventions from various therapeutic approaches including: The Gottman Method, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) to support couples and their relationship needs. 

Arianne recognizes and appreciates the immense privilege it is to be a therapist. She seeks to establish a trusting relationship with each individual and to provide you with a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment to achieve your goals and to help with your overall mental health care. She is committed to helping her clients learn, change, and grow! Arianne is passionate about helping her clients live a life worth living! 

Krista Hale is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in a variety of settings in the mental health field for 45 years. At the age of 54, she went back to school to earn her master's degree and became a licensed clinician. She is currently offering counseling to individuals, families, and couples via telehealth. Krista enjoys working with clients with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and major life transitions.

Krista Hale obtained her BSW in 1978, her MS in Mental Health Counseling in 2013, and became a licensed counselor in Virginia in 2016. She uses a person-centered approach, which involves being accepting, non-judgmental, and respectful of other worldviews.

A warm, intuitive, and empathetic counselor with a sense of humor, Krista helps her clients flourish despite life’s setbacks. Book your appointment today and start your journey to a better life.

Crystal Chafin is a Resident in Counseling specializing in marriage and family therapy with over 5 years of experience. She assists couples and individuals who have a range of concerns including chronic illness, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, behavioral problems, and substance use disorder. Crystal has experience working with adolescents struggling with gender and sexuality, and with those that have a diagnosis of ADHD and bipolar disorder. She has witnessed firsthand how mental health diagnoses impact the family system and uses that experience to provide a safe space for her clients to share.

Crystal graduated from Capella University with a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy and Addiction Studies. She utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, Gottman therapy, collaborative therapy, narrative therapy, and mindfulness exercises.

Crystal strives to help others cope with difficult diagnoses and obstacles while creating obtainable therapy goals. She provides a safe space to share feelings, thoughts, and emotions without judgment. Schedule an appointment with her today!

Armond Leake is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience in the mental health and rehabilitation fields. He supports individuals navigating loss, career changes, divorce, aging, chronic illness, disability, or other major life changes. They might be experiencing depression or anxiety due to their circumstances and need strategies and guidance to help them cope more effectively. Armond enjoys helping clients identify barriers to successfully work through their difficulties and gain the skills to get where they want to be.

Armond received his Master’s in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. He utilizes approaches including existential therapy, emotionally focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques.

Armond knows how hard this journey can be and has likely experienced some of the same challenges you are going through. As someone who has received support in the past, Armond encourages you to reach out today!

Dr. Jennifer James is a Licensed Professional Counselor Resident with over 10 years of experience. She specializes in supporting adults, couples, and families dealing with a range of challenges including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment issues, separation, divorce, co-parenting, narcissistic abuse, and major life transitions. Dr. James takes a holistic and person-centered approach, tailoring treatment to each client's needs and goals. She believes in building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust by creating a safe non-judgmental space to form the foundation for meaningful change and personal growth.

Dr. James received her Doctorate in Counseling and Psychological Studies from Regent University. She combines evidence-based practices with a warm, authentic presence and a faith-inspired approach. Dr. James uses cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused techniques.

Taking the first step towards counseling is a courageous act. If you're ready to embark on a healing journey, Dr. James is here to support you! Together you will work towards creating the fulfilling life you deserve, honoring your unique experiences and aspirations.

Marissa Bell is a Supervisee in Social Work with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families address their unique challenges and needs. Marissa has a diverse professional background working with individuals of different ages and needs. She specializes in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, grief, adjustment disorder, trauma, and major life transitions. Marissa completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Virginia Commonwealth University.

Marissa is very passionate about supporting and guiding others in finding solutions and overcoming challenges. Marissa utilizes multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, person-centered therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

Despite the challenges and situations that happen in life, Marissa is confident that she can support and empower individuals through navigating life challenges. Marissa can support others in developing coping skills and establishing goals. If you are ready to start therapy, schedule an appointment with her today.

Valerie Fowlkes is a Licensed Resident in Counseling with 3 years of experience serving clients in various settings including public schools, therapeutic day treatment facilities, substance abuse treatment programs, and mental health agencies. She specializes in assisting adults and adolescents who have a range of concerns such as relationship issues, childhood trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, women's issues, parenting challenges, and behavioral problems. Additionally, Valerie is skilled in providing premarital, marital, and couple counseling to her clients.

Valerie has a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling from Liberty University. She addresses client-specific needs using therapeutic modalities including person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness-based methods, the Gottman method, and many more.

Valerie believes that therapy should be goal-oriented. She helps clients better understand themselves and apply skills to ensure healing continues long after treatment ends. Valerie provides a secure environment where a cooperative, trustworthy, and nonjudgmental relationship can flourish. Schedule a session with her now!

Life's journey can rough. Not every path is smooth or easy and many are difficult and even dangerous. There are times we need someone to walk with us; perhaps help us find a new direction. Having someone that understands because they've been there, makes all the difference in the world. Brian Ede is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Commonwealth of Virginia, who has 30 years of experience working alongside individuals, couples and families seeking help with depression, anxiety, addiction, life transitions, relationship issues, men's issues, trauma and PTSD. He has completed his Bachelor of Social Work from Dordt College and received his Masters of Social Work from the University of Iowa.

Brian utilizes an eclectic approach including cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, mindfulness, solution focused approaches to therapy. He likes to incorporate unique and creative approaches in his practice that best meets the needs of every unique individual, couple and family.

Brian seeks to help you though those difficult paths, by offering a warm, caring and nonjudgmental relationship with you. He will build upon your strengths and help with tools that have you work toward your goals and working toward those things in life that you value.

Heather Duncan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia and an experienced counselor with 6 years of outpatient counseling and assessment experience and 14 years of experience working with severely mentally ill individuals within a variety of community mental health agencies. Heather graduated from Liberty University with a master’s degree focused on Professional Counseling. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and couples by approaching individuals uniquely while holding space and joining with individuals throughout their distinct healing journey as they work to live a more fulfilling life. Heather specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, major life transitions, men’s and women’s issues, life transitions and adjustments, peri and post-natal challenges, chronic pain, and chronic illnesses.

Heather Duncan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia and a member of the Virginia Counseling Association. Heather has demonstrated work experience within the mental health industry. Heather is skilled in crisis intervention, premarital and couples counseling, grief/loss, group therapy, behavioral health, training, and psychotherapy. She is passionate about partnering with individuals and investing time in the development of a strong therapeutic rapport. Heather’s passion, supportive style, and unique clinical approach to individuals fuel the treatment and quality of care you will receive. Heather utilizes multiple therapeutic person-centered treatment approaches including mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, prepare and enrich, and family systems therapy.

One of the most challenging and important aspects of wanting to start the therapeutic process is finding a counselor that you feel comfortable with! You have already made THE most important decision regarding your well-being and that is simply to just begin. When you develop a relationship with a caring, attuned therapist, you will find new ways to solve problems, know and accept yourself, heal old wounds, and change the way you live your life. We all deserve a little help and support sometimes, and that’s what led you here! If you’re feeling like something is missing or needs to give, please reach out to Heather and schedule an appointment today. She would be honored to be of help.

Heather Habaque is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 8 years of experience. She specializes in assisting children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with trauma or crisis. Heather also supports individuals experiencing depression, grief, family conflict, OCD, and life transitions. She has worked closely with neurodivergent clients to establish and successfully progress toward goals.

Heather has a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. She uses cognitive behavior therapy, crisis theory, person-centered theory, brief solution-focused therapy, family systems therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy.

Everyone’s issues, strengths, and needs in therapy are unique, as is the relationship between counselor and client. Finding the right person to assist with your needs and create a theoretically sound relationship may depend on finding someone willing to meet you where you are. Heather is ready to help you get started!

Ethan Zehr is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 5.5 years of experience in the mental health field. Ethan has worked as a therapeutic mentor, CASA volunteer, crisis stabilization clinician, outpatient clinician, and emergency services clinician in Virginia. He is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and couples address their challenges and increase overall functioning. Ethan specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, men's issues, relationship issues, major life transitions, and building mindfulness/coping skills, etc.

Ethan completed his Bachelor's in Religion at the University of Georgia and his Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. Ethan utilizes multiple treatment approaches including person-centered techniques (Rogerian), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and mindfulness.

As overwhelming and unpredictable as life can be, we can all use professional help at times. Ethan meets clients where they are and works to help clients improve their overall functioning. If you are ready, please schedule an appointment with Ethan.

Ife Milligan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Holistic Life Coach (CHLC) with over 10 years of professional experience working with clients of all ages with issues related to grief, loss, depression, ADHD, anxiety, oppositional defiance disorder (ODD), low self-esteem, family conflict, and more. 

She received her Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University and earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from Morgan State University. She received her Holistic Life Coach certification from the University of Wellness. Ife has worked in a variety of settings and populations, including outpatient mental health, school-based therapy, medical social work, residential care, geriatric care management, and managed care.

She employs cognitive behavioral techniques (CBT), dialectal behavioral therapy (DBT), humanistic approaches, motivational interviewing, and more. Ife truly enjoys assisting others on the journey of healing and growth. She'll partner with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your needs and helps you achieve your goals in and outside of sessions.