Our counselors provide therapy in Chesapeake, VA

Jerusha McClendon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has worked with many people experiencing mental health and addiction personally or in their family. Jerusha has 8 years of experience in the mental health field. She completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Ohio State University.

Jerusha believes there is a need to identify and understand where the seeds of doubt and fear come from, as well as how to connect with the seeds of hope and purpose in the present and the future. Her job is to facilitate the conversation and allow clients to gain insight into their condition and develop an action plan to change their lives.

Jerusha’s superpowers include listening empathetically, relating easily to others, and critical thinking. She believes that all people have purpose in life, and she wants to explore that purpose with clients. Additionally, she strives to create a safe place in therapy so vulnerability can be examined and gains made. Therapy is a change process. Join Jerusha in this change process so that you can be a changemaker in your life and spread that change to others in your inner circle.

As an EMDR therapist, I specialize in helping individuals to unlock their natural ability to heal. Using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, I facilitate a gentle yet powerful process that it's not about erasing the past, but allowing you to finally reclaim your present and future.

My clinical experience includes over 19 years working across short and long-term treatment, intensive in-home counseling, telehealth, psychiatric hospitals, law enforcement, community-based settings, military and multicultural communities. I earned a bachelor's in Social Work from Universidad Interamericana de Puerto Rico and a master's in both Mental Health Counseling and Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.

We all go through life changes and challenges — bright days and dark days, ups and downs. I understand that taking the first step toward healing can be daunting, but it's a step worth taking. Together, we'll create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can express your deepest emotions and confront your innermost fears. By working collaboratively, we'll unlock the strength and resilience that lies within you, allowing you to rewrite your story and pave a path toward lasting peace and fulfillment. You deserve to live a life free from the shadows of trauma and anxiety. It's time to embrace a future filled with hope, purpose, and joy. Schedule a session today, and let's walk the path of healing together.

Matthew is a Licensed Resident in Counseling (RIC) with years of experience. He has experience working in various settings, from out-patient college clinics to in-patient hospitals and outpatient community centers. He works with children, adolescents, and adults to address their unique needs and live their lives on their terms.

Matthew completed his Master's degree at Old Dominion University in 2022, and Bachelor's degrees in Criminal Justice and Psychology at the University of South Carolina Upstate in 2015 and 2016. He utilizes a person-centered and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach with his clients.

Life is a series of challenges and stresses. Matthew is confident that he can assist you in developing new ways of looking at and coping with the unique challenges that life gives you. If you are ready to get to work on changing you life, schedule an appointment today.

During my career, I have served on active duty in the United States Army and completed rotations in a sleep clinic, primary care center, and cognitive evaluation. I also completed training experiences at a community mental health center in rural Iowa and private practices in Lancaster, PA, and Virginia Beach, VA. I have supervised multiple clinical trainees at various levels and have taught several courses as an adjunct professor. I tailor each treatment to each individual client and enjoy working with clients in every stage of life. 

I have trained in many techniques and treatments and my approach to each client is customized to the individual. I am also flexible in approach, changing and adapting as needed to assist in your success. 

I look forward to hearing your story and being a part of your therapeutic journey.

Lily Flynn is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with more than 3 years of experience working with adults and seniors who are seeking help in coping with trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ issues, self-care, stress, ADHD, and much more. 

She graduated with honors from the University of Florida with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and earned her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Old Dominion University. Her clinical approach includes a collaborative effort with the client actively participating to create an attainable treatment plan. 

She focuses on strength and evidence-based interventions to encourage empowerment and help the client develop appropriate coping skills. She looks forward to building therapeutic relationships and joining the client on their journey through treatment.

Alise Stults is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been providing therapy services for more than 4 years. She is passionate about helping children, adolescents, adults, and families address challenges, overcome barriers to success and improve their well-being. Alise specializes in identity exploration, depression, anxiety, trauma, relational issues, and emotional regulation.

Alise utilizes a variety of approaches to assist clients in reaching their full potential and leading more fulfilling lives. Alise completed her Master's degree in Social Work at Rutgers University. She is a former military spouse and Residential Therapist with ample experience working with a variety of needs, life stressors, and diagnoses. Her eclectic approach to therapy offers a truly individualized experience to provide clients with the support and guidance they are seeking. Alise utilizes multiple treatment approaches including dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), bibliotherapy, mindfulness, positive psychology, solution-focused therapy (SFT), and more.

We all experience challenges and difficulties in life. Whether issues have been experienced for years, or have suddenly begun, Alise is confident that she can support you on your journey to your best self. She would like to offer you new perspectives, techniques, and skills to assist in navigating whatever challenges you are facing. If you are ready to tackle your problems, or just need help figuring things out, schedule an appointment with her today. 

I am Nikita Smith, LPC. My career in mental health began as an intern at a nursing home, working with individuals living with Alzheimer's disease and dementia, which inspired my passion for this work. After earning my bachelor's degree, I worked as a QMHP providing Intensive In-Home services to children, adolescents, and families. During my master's degree, I worked as an RBT providing ABA services to individuals with autism. After graduate school, I completed my residency in counseling, specializing in trauma-informed therapy. As an LPC, I provide therapy for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and autism. 

My method of treatment is influenced by a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy. I specialize in reframing automatic negative thoughts and utilizing unconditional positive regard. 

My approach is warm, collaborative, and clientcentered. I strive to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard, build effective coping skills, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. 

Madeline Garrett is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Virginia and Florida who has over 9 years of experience providing clinical assessments and therapeutic care to teens and adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, addiction, co-dependency, grief and loss, parenting assistance, and sexuality issues. She identifies as an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and affirms all spiritual beliefs.

Madeline completed her Bachelor of Psychology from Florida State University, Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California, and her Master of Leadership from Grand Canyon University. She is a compassionate counselor who utilizes strength-based, collaborative, relational, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, motivational, solution focused approaches to therapy. She strives to remain current on creative interventions, flexible, and in tune to best meet the needs of every unique challenge and individual.

Madeline understands that it takes a lot of courage to reach out for help. She looks forward to getting to know you and is so glad you're here. She will meet you where you are to empower you to make lasting changes. Bring whatever you are carrying, and together you can begin to sort through it to get some well-deserved relief.

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with 12 years of experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, depression, and life transitions. I work with clients who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain and are seeking clarity, balance, and emotional stability. Many of the people I support are managing relationship challenges, parenting stress, or workplace pressures, and I focus on creating a safe, welcoming space for healing and personal growth.

I hold a master’s degree in professional counseling from Liberty University. I use an integrative, evidence-based approach tailored to each client’s needs, blending counseling techniques that support emotional regulation, insight-building, and practical skill development to promote resilience and lasting change.

You deserve a supportive space where you can feel heard and understood without judgment. Together, we will identify your strengths, develop effective coping tools, and work toward meaningful goals. If you are ready to take the next step in your healing journey, I would be honored to support you.

I'm Andrea Stephen, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 4 years of experience in the mental health field. I believe in utilizing a holistic approach that incorporations eclectic and holistic approach the incorporates interventions from Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Faith-Based. I focus on anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief/loss, PTSD, Bipolar & Borderline Personality.

I completed my Ed.S in Counseling at Old Dominion University, my master's in Human Services Counseling at Liberty University, and master's in Human Services at Capella University. I have over 30 years experience in higher education and over 25 years of ministry experience. 

Coupled with my professional experience, I am able to meet clients where they need to be met and provide the guidance and support they are seeking on their healing journey. I know how heavy life's challenges can feel, and I invite you to reach out so we can walk this journey together toward healing, hope, and wholeness.

Ja'Lesa Pierce is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. She has provided mental health support, counseling, and therapy in a variety of settings including residential, classroom, community, and office. Ja'Lesa has worked with children, families, couples, adolescents, and adults, but she found her niche in assisting teens through middle-aged women with finding their voice, recovery, and resting in a place of purpose. Ja'Lesa is passionate about helping others live their best life—healthy, fulfilled, and whole. Ja'Lesa specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, women's issues, and major life transitions.

Ja'Lesa completed her Master of Arts degree in Community Counseling from Norfolk State University in 2013. After working in the mental health field for a few years, she realized her desire to help others on a deeper level and went back to school at Virginia Commonwealth University. There, she obtained a Post-Master's Certificate in Professional Counseling in pursuit of LPC licensure. Ja'Lesa's varied experience across a myriad of cultures, backgrounds, dynamics, and diagnoses allows her to bring a unique perspective to the counseling session. Ja'Lesa's charismatic and non-judgmental approach helps her clients feel welcome and free to just be. Ja'Lesa utilizes multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, radical acceptance, trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.

Ja'Lesa understands the nuances of life's stressors, pressures, and upsets. We all go through challenges, and some seasons are more difficult than others to journey through alone. Maybe something has come up in your life that you thought you were over, or maybe imposter syndrome is crippling you where you stand. Maybe grief has been lingering longer than expected, or maybe unhealthy patterns of behavior are starting to impact multiple areas of your life. Whatever "it" is for you, Ja'Lesa is confident that she can support you with gaining new perspectives, reaching a place of acceptance, improving self-esteem and confidence, healing, and developing relevant coping skills that you can utilize for the rest of your life. If you are committed to doing the work, schedule an appointment with her today!

I’m Tammy, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field.I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, and those moments when life simply doesn’t look or feel the way they thought it would. I especially enjoy working with people who are ready to understand themselves more deeply, challenge old patterns, strengthen relationships, and create a life that feels authentic, meaningful, and fulfilling. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to be willing to show up.

My approach is person-centered, compassionate, honest, and real. I don’t believe in "performance therapy" or "one-size-fits-all" treatment. We will laugh, reflect, challenge some uncomfortable truths, identify blind spots, and learn new ways of responding to life. I’ll meet you where you are while helping you move toward where you want to be.

Therapy is one of the few spaces in life where you get to show up and let it truly be about you. You don’t have to perform, have the right words, or pretend you’re okay. Come as you are. I’ll meet you there with compassion, curiosity, and honesty. If you’re ready to begin doing the work for yourself, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.