Our therapists offer PTSD & trauma therapy in Charlottesville, VA

Hey, my name is Dr. Kayla Thorne! I have received my Doctorate in Human Services, Master of Social Work, and Bachelor of Arts in sociology. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2025 and have provided therapy to children, adolescents, and teenagers since 2023 as a Supervisee in Social Work. I have also provided therapy to college-aged students and adults since 2025. I enjoy the wide variety of clients that I work with who are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, and life changes. I work with the clients to set goals for therapy and help them achieve those goals throughout the therapy timeframe.

I use a cognitive-behavioral therapy approach and have specialized training in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, and stress. I focus on active listening, cognitive restructuring, and assigning homework (as needed) between sessions to support continued growth.

Life can be challenging to navigate at times, especially when you feel anxious, stressed, or alone. I know it can be hard to find someone to trust to talk about your experiences when it seems impossible to deal with the life stressors. I'll be there to meet you where you are during those tough times, so feel free to book a session with me.

I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering empathetic, research-driven care to individuals of all ages. I have worked with clients facing a range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, PTSD, mood disorders, and other psychiatric conditions. Many individuals seek insight, emotional stability, and actionable strategies to navigate stressors, strengthen relationships, and regain a sense of control. I am particularly committed to empowering clients seeking deeper self-understanding, resilience, and working toward meaningful, lasting change.

My personality style is warm, empathetic, and approachable, creating a safe space where clients feel comfortable being open and honest. I help them feel heard, understood, and empowered. I value authenticity and maintain a nonjudgmental attitude, meeting each person where they are and helping clients build practical skills for lasting growth and healing.

Taking the first step toward mental wellness can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to do it alone. I am here to support you with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to your growth and healing. I encourage you to take the next step and begin your journey toward meaningful change.

I am a Resident in Counseling with 4 years of experience supporting adults and teenagers with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, parenting struggles, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allows me to serve the Spanish-speaking community and welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds. I also have experience working with the immigrant population and strive to provide compassionate, culturally responsive care that meets clients where they are.

I earned my Master’s in Counseling and Human Development and Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Radford University. My approach is holistic and includes person-centered, multicultural, cognitive behavioral therapy, expressive arts, solution-focused, and supportive-directive methods, tailored to each client’s needs.

I understand that life can feel difficult and overwhelming at times. I believe healing and growth are possible when trust and rapport are built, and I will walk alongside you at your own pace in the journey toward well-being. Together, we can create space for hope, resilience, and meaningful change.

Nessalyn Dearce is a Resident in Counseling who has experience providing mental health services to children and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, chronic illness, and stress management. Nessalyn is LGBTQIA+ affirming and works to maintain multicultural awareness in session. She completed her Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology at Christopher Newport University and her Master of Science (MS) in Education in Counseling at Old Dominion University. 

Nessalyn utilizes person-centered, mindfulness-based, cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, solution focused, and emotionally focused approaches to therapy. She encourages individuals to acknowledge their inner experiences in healthy ways and assists them in aligning with their goals and ideals. Nessalyn aims to meet the individual needs of each person by exploring the qualities and experiences that make them unique.

Nessalyn understands that getting help can be difficult and intimidating, so she aims to make the office a safe space for clients to be themselves and hopes to establish a therapeutic relationship that makes room for growth and healing.

Cindy Painter is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and she has worked in the mental health field for the past 35 years. She has enjoyed working and helping families, older adolescents, and adults live successful and healthier lives. Cindy specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, and anger management. She has a lot of experience working with individuals, families, and adolescents. Cindy enjoys assisting individuals and families in a team approach to resolving current issues and stressors.

Cindy completed her Master of Social (MSW) from Virginia Commonwealth University. She uses multiple treatment approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-focused CBT (TF-CBT). solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness. Cindy has a lot of experience working with individuals that are struggling with anxiety and depression and has also worked with adolescents and adults on anger management skills. She brings an understanding of how thoughts affect feelings and uses different coping skills to manage symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Cindy is confident that she would be able to support you on your journey to gain new ideas and techniques that allow you to cope with the issues that are present. If you think Cindy would be a good fit for you, schedule an appointment with her today.