Find a therapist, counselor or psychologist in Blacksburg, VA

"In life we may not always have the answers to fix our own problems. Therapy can help you understand the issues you are facing and provide you with the ability to become empowered and determine what you feel those solutions are for you. "

Cassandra Simpson is an LPC who has 5 years of experience providing clients with clinical therapeutic assessment and treatment of depression/anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and mood regulation. Cassandra is also specialized in assisting clients who are currently experiencing or have previously endured domestic/intimate partner violence. 

Cassandra completed her Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Administration of Justice at Northern Arizona University and her Master of Arts (MA) in Professional Counseling at Ottawa University in Phoenix, Arizona. She approaches her clients with empathy and validation, while encouraging individuals to self-reflect on their behaviors and actions as well. 

Cassandra utilizes a collaborative approach, practicing cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies, emotionally focused and solution focused therapies, narrative, and expressive arts therapy. Her intention is to acknowledge each client as a unique individual and tailor the therapeutic approach to best meet their needs. 

Cassandra is focused on establishing a positive rapport, while collaborating with you to identify your therapeutic goals and working to improve your self-reliance and quality of life. Her goal is to assist you in becoming empowered through this process towards living the life you aspire to.

Julie Neely is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 18 years of professional experience working with children, teens, and adults in a wide variety of settings, including community mental health and school-based environments. She specializes in treating concerns or conditions related to anxiety, anger, depression, chronic stress, ADHD, women's issues, panic-related problems, and spirituality-based issues.

Julie earned her Master of Arts (MA) in Counselor Education at Virginia Tech. She utilizes cognitive behavioral techniques (CBT), solutions-focused strategies, and talk therapy approaches, depending on the client's preference and situation. This will provide a setting for you to safely learn new skills and become empowered to face difficult situations. She believes that the counselor-client relationship, like any other connection, is based on mutual respect, trust, and a willingness to share life experiences.

Julie comes into the therapeutic relationship with a person-centered approach in order to give each person she works with the space to feel safe and comfortable. She would like to join you on your journey, providing you with a listening ear, useful skills, and professional strategies.

Dana holds a Master's Degree in Social Work and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of experience providing various levels of care to clients. Dana has experience in crisis counseling through a 24/7 program and completing psychiatric evaluations. Dana also has worked with children and families in their homes providing family therapy. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and family conflict. Dana enjoys working with young adults and helping them navigate the many changes that occur during young adulthood. She feels confident in being able to provide the tools and skills to navigate the shifts that inevitably occur throughout life. 

Dana focuses on building rapport with clients and helping clients feel empowered to create change. Dana is there to meet her clients where they are and involve them in developing treatment goals to achieve. She understands the courage and strength it takes to begin therapy and ensures her clients feel safe, valued, and validated throughout the entire theraputic progress. 

 She will create a personalized treatment plan with you that meets your specific needs, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused, strength-based, and mindfulness approaches to therapy. 

I believe, that most often times, it takes an individual to experience significant pain or dissatisfaction in their life in order for them to pursue counseling and change. I understand that the step to reach out and ask for assistance with life’s issues is a huge step and I do not take that lightly. As your therapist, it is my commitment to come along side of you and support you through the more challenging times in life.

The goal of my practice is to provide a safe environment where clients can discuss difficult issues which are free from judgment, and develop meaningful life change so that they can work towards their goals and have a better quality of life. My approach to counseling integrates several skill and evidenced based approaches into therapy such as: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), Motivational interviewing (MI), mindfulness, self-care, and boundary setting. I am experienced in working with teenagers, young adults, and adults. My areas of special interest are: depression, anxiety, grief, mood disorders, vocational counseling, spirituality, faith-based counseling, self-esteem, coping with physical illness and pain, relationship issues, substances use disorders, and life transitions.

I look forward to meeting and working with you!

"I believe one life is a world and I hope that you let me get to know your world, so I can help you to grow."

Mia Mickenberg is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has 12 years of experience in the mental health field, working with diverse populations, many different issues, and in various settings, including schools, homes, a college counseling center and a substance abuse prevention center. Mia enjoys working with and has a great deal of experience in counseling youth, adolescents, and adults. 

Mia believes that counseling is not a one-size-fits-all process; everyone is different and their counseling process will differ as well. She provides a safe space to explore life experiences and help you to identify and learn new solutions and coping skills for life’s challenges. Through the ebbs and flows of life we can hit hard times. Mia's goal is to help you through these times. It can get better, and counseling can help.

Mia uses a holistic and integrative approach to counseling, because as people we are not just our minds or physical selves but a combination of the two. She draws from various theories and techniques, including but not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), reality, solution-focused, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing, as well as incorporating the creative arts. Whether you're struggling, or want to work towards thriving and being the best version of YOU, Mia would love to join you on your path.

"As a woman who has experienced depression and anxiety, I understand mental health from the viewpoint of, not only a provider, but a consumer as well."

Melissa is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has worked with adults with serious mental illness in community-based positions, individual counseling, group facilitation, and assessment. She has worked with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, psychosis, adjustment issues, grief and loss, substance use disorders, self-esteem deficiencies, relationship issues, trauma, and much more. 

Melissa obtained her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from North Carolina State University and obtained a Master's degree in Counseling and Human Development from Radford University. She utilizes techniques from a variety of therapy approaches including person-centered therapy (PCT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), culturally sensitive therapy (CST), mindfulness, and strengths-based therapy (SBT).

As a survivor, Melissa is passionate about issues including sexual assault and domestic violence. She has the compassion and empathy needed to sit with you during uncomfortable moments and help you to see your strengths. If this is what you seek, allow yourself to be vulnerable—schedule an appointment with Melissa today.

"I value honesty, inclusivity, and kindness. I believe the foundation of a successful therapeutic relationship requires empathy, unconditional positive regard, validation, and authenticity. I will provide these qualities to you in a safe and collaborative environment."

Jennie Brogan (pronouns she/her/they) is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience working with individuals in various counseling arenas. Jennie specializes in topics related to sex and sexuality, sex therapy, couples/relationship therapy, LGBTQ+ issues, "alternative lifestyles," religion & faith, and the intersection of sex and faith. She has been successful in treating clients with depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, and self-esteem issues. She has helped individuals develop healthy relationships, confidence, assertiveness, and communication skills.

Jennie earned her BS in Psychology at James Madison University, Master of Science in Counseling and Human Development at Radford University, and Master of Education in Human Sexuality Studies at Widener University. She uses person-centered therapy, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy.

Jennie's work and life experiences show that she understands the unique challenges you experience throughout life. They persevere through many transitions (college, marriage, divorce, career changes) and identity-defining experiences. If you are looking for a counselor to guide you to success, schedule an appointment with her today!

"As a highly experienced therapist, educator, and US Air Force Veteran, I have the capacity to understand a wealth of struggles that a great deal of people face on a daily basis."

Hollie L. O'Connor is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and substance use professional with 11 years of experience in the field of mental health and addictions. She is passionate about helping adolescents, teens, adults, and couples address their unique challenges and work toward improving their overall quality of life. Hollie specializes in anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, substance use disorders, borderline personality disorder, major life transitions, grief and loss, and relationship issues. She is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, where she served for 6 years during Desert Shield/Desert Storm 2 years in the Reserves.

Hollie earned her M.Ed. at East Tennessee State University and her MSW at Indiana University. Her military background and professional experience enable her to address a variety of challenges. Hollie utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, person-centered care, and more.

No feeling is final! Hollie is passionate about assisting you on your journey to improve your quality of life and is confident she can provide you with the support you need. If you are ready to put yourself first and begin improving your outlook on the future, schedule an appointment today and be prepared to enjoy feeling completely empowered in life!

"I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives, and I seek to make others feel heard and understood; I create a safe, non-judgmental environment and work with you to reach your goals."

Holden Raines is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 8 years of experience working in the mental health field. He has worked with a variety of populations including adults, adolescents, and children/families. He has worked in the community extensively and developed a flexible, person-centered approach. Holden specializes in treating anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and family conflict.

Holden completed his Master's (M.S) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Radford University. Holden first began working with children, adolescents, and their families in the home environment. He then transitioned to crisis counseling in which he provided solution-focused brief therapy directed at short-term goals. He obtained his license in 2021, and now provides outpatient counseling in a traditional face-to-face setting and also via video. Holden has developed an adaptable style in counseling and meets clients where they are. He often utilizes existential, narrative, strength-based, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused, and person-centered approaches in counseling.

As hard as we may fight it, a stigma still exists regarding mental health and asking for help. Holden understands that it can be a difficult decision to begin therapy. He looks forward to helping you identify goals, work toward them, and live a more fulfilling life.

Courtney Sutphin-Hebdon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider (CMHIMP) who has 20 years of experience in the mental health field. Courtney completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Tennessee.

Courtney understands that the relationship of therapy can and should look very different from person to person. Her experience has enabled her to tailor her approach to fit individual needs. Courtney focuses on helping individuals meet their potential by combining effective psychotherapy techniques with lifestyle and wellness factors. She believes strongly that mental wellness is critical to overall health and wellbeing, and that we cannot separate physical and mental health. Courtney takes a holistic approach to mental health, incorporating cognitive therapy, mindfulness skills, and motivational interviewing skills into this process.

Becoming mired in life's problems is exhausting and can be debilitating, and as a therapist Courtney's job is to help you move through whatever you are facing. From adolescents and emerging adults to parents to seniors, at some point we all have a need for support as we tackle life's obstacles. Courtney looks forward to working with you, supporting your choices, and assisting in your growth. She believes that everything is figure-out-able and that together, we can do hard things!

"I understand the issues associated with navigating differing types of relationships and the various emotions associated with these interactions."

Michael Orndoff is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 4 years of experience in the field of Social Work. He is passionate about helping adults, adolescents, and couples manage their own unique challenges in their daily life. Michael specializes in relationship issues, depression, career concerns, anger management, building self-esteem, and parenting concerns. 

Michael completed his Master's Degree in Social Work from Norfolk State University and his Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Virginia Wesleyan University. Michael came from a blended family and witnessed firsthand the struggles associated with building and maintaining relationships. Michael's professional experience has helped him learn how to develop and implement treatment approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and person-centered therapy (PCT). 

Life is full of challenges and each and every person has their own unique story to tell. Michael is ready to listen and help you navigate your specific situation so that you can feel more empowered to enact positive change in your own life. Through exploration of your unique life experiences, Michael is confident that he will be able to assist you in developing skills and strategies to manage whatever it is that you are being affected by. If you are ready to take back control over your life and put in the effort, schedule and appointment with him.

"As your therapist, I will provide safe, neutral, collaborative, and purposeful ways to improve your life situation."

Renee Anderson is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. She is purposeful and passionate about helping individuals at all life stages address and conquer challenges. Renee specializes in treating depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, motivational issues, and the fallout caused by major life transitions.

Renee completed her Master's degree in Agency Counseling at Gardner Webb University and has diverse experience in helping individuals at all life stages. Renee spent 15 years in a hospital setting performing emergency evaluations, case management, and social work interventions. Primarily, she uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), but also is eclectic in her approach, incorporating mindfulness and solutions-focused (SFT) interventions as needed.

Renee is confident that you can work together with her to find a new understanding of yourself and enhance your coping skills. Through the process of therapy, you may even discover strengths you never knew you had. She'll help get you on your way toward becoming a strong, confident individual—reach out to schedule today.

"Sometimes life takes unexpected turns, leaving us unsure on where to begin with untangling the stories we've collected along the way."

Ashley, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), is deeply committed to helping adults transform the narratives they've woven throughout their lives. With 9 years of diverse mental health experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, and attachment-related issues, all approached through a spiritual lens that emphasizes the profound interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.

Ashley creates a nurturing and empowering space where clients can explore their innermost thoughts and feelings, guiding them toward transformative insights and profound personal growth. She believes that true healing emerges when we recognize our connections with ourselves and the world around us.

Holding a master’s degree from Lindsey Wilson College, Ashley is passionate about walking alongside others on their journeys to deepen self-awareness and enhance life satisfaction. If you’re feeling lost or overwhelmed, Ashley is your compassionate ally, ready to help you navigate the twists and turns of life with grace and resilience. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and growth with Ashley by your side, and unlock the vibrant, fulfilling life that awaits you.

"As a multi-racial and multicultural individual, I approach counseling with my focus on the unique individual; their story and experiences are valid and central to the collaborative work we do in the counseling room. "

Hannah Pinkston is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia with years of experience in the mental health field. She has worked with individuals, groups, couples, and families at various life stages and from diverse backgrounds that are seeking sustainable empowerment through habit development, increased self-awareness, and enhanced life perspectives. 

Hannah studied Sociology with a focus on human rights and global studies at Mount St. Mary’s College, earned her Bachelor of Science in Marriage & Family Studies from Brigham Young University-Idaho, and received her Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. 

Hannah’s comprehensive, person-centered approach to therapy, prioritizes the overall well-being of the client and maintains alignment with their personal goals. She values effective, evidence-based methodology by staying up-to-date and educated on relevant studies and research. She has successfully integrated several types of therapies including family systems, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, nutrition-focused, solution-focused, and emotionally focused methods. 

Hannah strives to maintain a genuine, caring, and welcoming atmosphere for a strong and collaborative counseling relationship to flourish. 

"Empowering resilience and healing through compassionate counseling for those navigating grief, trauma, and life’s challenges."

Amanda Kassay is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Advanced Grief Counseling Specialist with over 7 years of experience. She has worked with clients from childhood through late adulthood in individual and family therapeutic settings. Partnering closely with clients, Amanda addresses a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and life transitions. Her specialized focus lies in grief therapy and guiding others through the process of loss and helping them reinvest in a meaningful life.

Amanda earned her Master’s in Counseling and Human Services from Lindsey Wilson College. She employs therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, and therapeutic art techniques.

Driven by a profound appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit, Amanda is dedicated to providing compassionate guidance and support to individuals navigating grief and loss. She empowers clients to honor their emotions, cultivate resilience, and embark on transformative journeys toward healing and personal growth. Schedule an appointment today.

"My breadth of learning, life-experience, and consistent life-long work on my own personal flaws and imperfections enables me to meet clients where they are without judgement."

Chris Smallwood is a Licensed Clinical Social Work Supervisee (LCSW-S) who has over 15 years of experience. He specializes in working with those dealing with adjustment issues, stress, anger, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, trauma, unresolved and complicated grief, addiction, and substance use challenges. Chris enjoys working with a wide range of clients from adolescents to older adults.

Chris completed his Bachelor's degree in Psychology at Virginia Tech, and his Master's degree in Health Promotion and Master's degree in Social Work at Concord University. He utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, trauma-focused therapy, and much more.

The very act of seeking help takes enormous amounts of inner strength and is the first step on the path to healing. When you are ready to build upon this strength and begin your journey toward healing, let Chris be your guide and schedule an appointment today.

"Having understanding and empathy allows me to help my clients feel comfortable focusing on complex or troublesome areas of their lives."

Kristin Rasmussen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 7 years of professional experience working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitional issues, chronic stress, and more.

Kristin earned her Master's degree in Social Work from Radford University and employs a range of therapeutic approaches, which are used as appropriate for the best care of my clients. Some of these approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, and solutions-focused therapy. She utilizes EMDR for clients who have simple or complex trauma to process and move on from. She is a huge proponent of the benefits of EMDR and each therapy session is tailored to the individual needs of each client. 

The driving force in Kristin's therapy practice is empathy. Having understanding and empathy allows her to help her clients to feel comfortable focusing on the areas of their lives that may feel complex and formidable. The therapeutic relationship she strives to develop with her clients is one of warmth, compassion, and trust. Kristin views therapy as a time to allow the client to discuss any issues they would like to grow from or resolve, without judgment.

"I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with experience in a variety of mental health settings."

Beth Hollingsworth is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 9 years of experience in clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient, crisis intervention, and intensive outpatient services. She works with adults who are struggling with issues including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, stress, grief, and substance use. Beth is also a certified clinical trauma professional.

Beth has a Master of Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. She uses eclectic treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness meditation, and guided visualization.

Beth believes a trusting relationship between therapist and client is the foundation for addressing life’s challenges. She wants to help you identify your strengths and meet your goals. Schedule an appointment with her today!

Tara Lineberry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia and has over 15 years of experience assisting children, adolescents, adults, and couples with mental health, relationship, and trauma concerns. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Human Development/Human Services from Virginia Tech and received her Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California. Tara has experience conducting therapeutic sessions in both the inpatient psychiatric and outpatient mental health settings.  

Tara utilizes multiple therapeutic modalities to try to best meet the needs of each individual, couple, and family. These include strength based, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, mindfulness based, emotion focused, and solution focused therapies. Additionally, Tara has an extensive history assisting survivors of trauma including intimate partner violence, sexual violence, harassment, grief/loss, and military.  

Tara looks forward to creating a positive therapeutic relationship with you to assist you in meeting your goals and living your best life. Tara is a firm believer in the strength possessed by each individual and wants to help you to build on that strength and realize your own potential for growth and healing.

"My number one goal as your therapist is to give you a safe, nonjudgmental space to help you get to know yourself better, determine your needs and goals, and to help you build trust and confidence in yourself! "

Sam Cowart is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 15 years of experience helping adult clients who are suffering from panic attacks, anxiety, depression, adjustment-related issues, anger, OCD, trauma, PTSD, and more. 

Sam utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solutions-focused brief therapy, and a humanistic approach to assist each client as a unique individual. She knows that counseling is inevitably a vulnerable experience. It’s one that gently asks you to let your guard down a bit, and it’s a way to get to know yourself better, regardless of what you’d like to work on.

Maybe you’re going through a particularly hard time, or maybe you find yourself feeling like there’s something in your life you’d like to change. Whatever the reason may be, Sam's number one goal as your counselor is to provide you with a safe and nonjudgmental environment so that you can feel comfortable navigating these things.

"As a young woman living in rural Appalachia, I understand the impact that social and cultural norms can have on our self-exploration, mental health, and life situations."

Darian Phillips Fawbush is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 4 years of experience in the mental health field. Darian specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, women's issues, rural mental health, and the intersectionality of familial, social, and cultural dynamics that can bring a diverse range of challenges. Darian identifies as an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and affirms all spiritual or religious beliefs. Darian completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Virginia's College-Wise, and her Master's degree in Counseling Education from Virginia Tech.

Darian has lived in rural Appalachia her entire life, which brings a unique understanding of how important social, cultural, and relational dynamics can be for clients as they examine their sense of self. Darian utilizes multiple treatment approaches including trauma-informed care, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), & cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Darian understands that life is not always easy. She is confident that she would be able to support you on your journey to forge paths to wellness, improve coping, and provide support for challenges you may be facing. If you are looking for a caring, compassionate, and understanding guide to assist you.

"My own road to learning who I was and what I wanted has given me a lot of experience in in living life on my own terms — and my solid educational background in counseling has given me tools I can share. Things can get bad, and support can make a difference. Give me a chance to walk beside you for a while, and help transform the life you have into the life you want."

Johanna Jones is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in helping people with adjustment disorders, anger management, anxiety, co-dependency issues, chronic illness, relationship issues, depression, grief, LGBTQ+ issues, mood disorders, panic disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, schizophrenia, sexual abuse, stress management, substance abuse, and trauma. Her focus is adults, and she has a special place in her heart for LGBTQ populations, the mentally ill, and those who identify with Asperger's Syndrome. 

Johanna's solid educational background in evidence-based therapy has given her tools she can share. These come from many sources, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and reality therapy, to name a few — proven interventions for beating addiction, increasing motivation, and living life on your own terms.

"Life can begin to feel out of control. You can run out of energy, out of good ideas – or maybe someone else is trying to make decisions for you. But it really can get better, and perhaps I can help," says Johanna. "In my work with substance abuse recovery, severe mental illness, and getting through tough times, I’ve had two decades of experience counseling people with challenging issues."

"As a counselor and practitioner of the arts, I understand the profound effect art can have on processing emotions and how it can take you on a journey of self-exploration. "

Sarah Rash is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 7 years of combined experience working in a variety of counseling venues. She has a passion for helping adults understand and navigate the challenges they face as a result of life circumstances or diagnoses to lead to more rewarding day-to-day lives. Sarah specializes in anxiety, depression, grief, coping skills education, self-esteem, some trauma work, and self-exploration/growth.

Sarah earned her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Radford University. With a degree in the arts, Sarah finds unique ways to incorporate art into counseling. Sarah utilizes an eclectic blend of modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, biblio-therapy, expressive arts, mindfulness, gestalt, and solution-focused therapy.

Healing and growth are uniquely individual experiences. Sarah is confident she can offer you a guiding hand along your journey, provide education on new coping skills, help expand your perspective and gain greater insight, and cultivate more self-compassion. If you are ready to begin your expedition, schedule an appointment today!