Ariane Karpf, Resident in Counseling

Philosophy of Care

Ariane “Ari” Karpf is a Resident in Counseling (RIC) with 20 years of experience working with teens, adults, and seniors who are dealing with concerns related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem, trauma, panic disorders, insomnia, stress, relationship issues, grief, anger management, and more.

She completed her Bachelor's and Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University and Medical College. Ari is eager to help individuals, couples, and families with psychiatric and dual diagnosis issues on a short term as well as long/extended basis tailored to life’s circumstances.

Ari utilizes person-centered, collaborative, strengths-based, cognitive behavioral (CBT), mindfulness-based, solutions-focused, and emotionally-focused approaches to therapy, while always maintaining the creativity, flexibility, and awareness necessary to best meet every individual. Ari seeks to establish a warm and collaborative relationship and create a comfortable and safe environment for everyone to explore themselves, their experiences, situations, and goals, and provide helpful tools for a better day and successful future.

Education

Master of Rehabilitation Counseling
Virginia Commonwealth University

Specialties

• Depression/Anxiety and other mood related issues
• Dual diagnosis/substance abuse
• Panic Disorders
• Personality Disorders
• Health/Medical Problems
• LGTBTQ
• PTSD
• Self-esteem issues
• Eating disorders
• Autism
• Sleep disturbances
• Stress management
• Life transitions
• Relationship issues
• Grief & Loss
• Health/Medical Problems
• Anger management

Ashely Ryan, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Ashely Ryan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 15 years of experience providing therapeutic treatment services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families. Throughout her career, she has helped individuals in the areas of mood management, anger management, substance use/abuse, trauma, self-esteem, grief/loss, anxiety, stress management, and interpersonal skills.

Ashely completed her Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology at Virginia Commonwealth University and her Master in Education (M.Ed) in Community Counseling from the College of William & Mary. Ashely feels that in order for therapy to be successful, it needs to occur in a safe and comfortable environment where individuals and families feel listened to, validated, and supported. Ashely believes that the client is their own expert as well and that collaboration is key.

Ashely believes in providing high quality, person-centered treatment that focuses on your goals and what you want to accomplish throughout the therapeutic process. She will create a personalized treatment plan that meets your specific needs, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), art/play therapy, and solution-focused therapy. Ashely focuses on strengths, on developing a solid therapeutic alliance, and on empowering individuals and families while providing support and guidance on their treatment needs.

Education

College of William & Mary
Master's in Community Counseling

Specialties

• Mood Management
• Anger Management
• Substance Use / Abuse
• Trauma
• Interpersonal Skills
• Parent-Child Relationships
• Family Therapy

Brent Burhite, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Brent Burhite is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Virginia who has over 24 years of healthcare experience.  He has worked as a nursing assistant, EMT, Registered Nurse and PMHNP.  He specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, sleep disturbances and helping individuals cope with overall life stressors.  He completed his Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Minot State University in 2005 and his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences in 2018 and is currently serving in the United States Air Force.  

Brent emphasizes the use of evidence based psychopharmacology coupled with cognitive behavioral strategies to treat mental health symptoms.  He strongly believes in a holistic approach to mental health care and stresses interprofessional collaboration with peers to meet unique client needs.  He is a firm believer that medication management is only a portion of treating mental health concerns and will help clients utilize all resources available to meet their treatment objectives.  

Brent seeks to form an authentic relationship with his clients in order to achieve therapeutic goals.  He understands that building a strong client/provider relationship is key to successful treatment and strives to create an honest, open and comfortable atmosphere to foster growth and healing. 

Education

Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences
Doctor of Nursing Practice

Specialties

• Medication Management
• Depression
• Anxiety
• PTSD
• Mood disorders
• Bipolar Disorders
• Personality Disorders
• Sleep disturbances
• Stress management
• Life transitions
• Relationship issues
• Grief & Loss
• Military issues

Bridget Famogun, PMHNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

Bridget U. Famogun is a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science degree as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) PMHNP, and she is Board Certified. Before becoming PMHNP, Bridget was a Psychiatric Registered Nurse for eight years with a history of working in the hospital & clinical Trial care setting. Bridget completed her Master's in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Walden University and graduated with honors. 

Bridget earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia, in 2010, and has worked in the nursing field since then.

Bridget is skilled in Psychiatric Assessment, Psychiatric Diagnoses and Medication Management, Health Promotion, Crisis Intervention, Clinical Supervision, and Healthcare Management.

Bridget has a passion for working with vulnerable populations. She is a firm believer in a holistic approach to treating disturbances in mental health that can involve medication management, psychotherapy, and alternative treatment modalities. Additionally, Bridget is interested in working with patients with eating disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, and talk therapy. Moreover, she is proficient in working with adult ADD, psychotic, mood, self-esteem, stress management, anger management, and anxiety disorders.

Bridget's main goal and focus as a PMHNP at Thriveworks is to grow and connect her knowledge and understanding of the brain's biology and interconnections, with the neuropathology of psychiatric illnesses and psychotherapy and prescriptive practice.

Education

Walden University
Master's in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Specialties

• Medication Management
• Psych Testing
• Autism
• Eating Disorders
• Mood Disorders
• Personality Disorders
• CBT

Camille Brenke, PMHNP

**Camille offers services in Spanish.

Philosophy of Care

Camille Brenke is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has experience working with children and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, psychosis, and dementia. Camille has a special interest in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders as well as alternative and complementary medicines.

Camille completed both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Virginia Commonwealth University. She also holds a minor in Spanish and certificate in Community Engagement. Camille is a culturally sensitive and queer-affirming provider.

Camille seeks to establish a genuine relationship with you and collaborate on creating a treatment plan that is both evidence-based and centered on you. It will focus on meeting your goals and improving quality of life.

Education

Virginia Commonwealth University
Master of Science

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Bipolar disorder
• Personality Disorders
• Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders
• Alternative and Complementary medicine

Carl Brown, Resident in Counseling

Philosophy of Care

Carl Brown is a Resident in Counseling who has been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. Mr. Brown has experience working with seriously mentally ill population (SMI) adults, children, and families who have experienced trauma, varied mental health diagnoses, and legal and socioeconomic concerns. His professional career began with District 19 Community Services Board (CSB) as a qualified mental health professional working in the Psychosocial Rehabilitation Day Program. There he was primarily responsible for training and developing individuals with a serious mental illness on independent living skills.

Mr. Brown worked at District 19 CSB for 13 years as a Mental Health Support Provider and then as a Mental Health Case Manager before joining the private mental health sector. He was the Lead Clinical Supervisor with L.I.F.E. Youth and Adult Services for 9 years. Mr. Brown started his private sector career overseeing intensive in-home services, mental health skill building services and the psycho-social rehabilitation (PSR) day program. In addition, he also managed the day-to-day operations of L.I.F.E. Youth and Adult Services and worked with local community mental health agencies to coordinate and collaborate services as needed. Mr. Brown completed his Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) at Ferrum College and his Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University.

Mr. Brown’s focus is to empower and help you develop strength and mastery over life challenges to help you find your way to healing. Healing is a process that involves appropriate strategies and skills, life changes, insight, self-awareness, and support to get to a place of clarity, self-discovery, and stability. Life often hands us unforeseen challenges and obstacles, but that doesn't have to break us or keep us from the healing we all deserve. There are benefits to seeking help and having a safe space to process. Mr. Brown is here to work with you on your healing journey. He utilizes evidence-based treatments, including person-centered therapy, behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness, to help individuals achieve improved emotional and behavioral functioning.

Education

Liberty University
Master's in Professional Counseling

Specialties

• Anxiety
• ADHD
• Behavioral Issues
• Coping Skills
• Family Conflict
• Relationships
• Stress

Cheryl Colt, LPC

Cheryl Colt is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in anxiety, depression, grief, anger management, and domestic violence. Cheryl has 10+ years of experience as an LPC working with individuals, couples, and families. Her pastoral background also enables her to support clients using their spiritual resources.

"'I want to feel better. I want a better relationship with my partner or children. I need someone to really listen to me.' These are some of the comments I hear when someone comes to counseling for the first time," says Cheryl. "Often, the clients I see have struggled with depression, anxiety, conflict, or trauma for years before they seek help from a therapist. What if counseling could improve your quality of life and lessen your negative symptoms? In my work as a psychotherapist, I have had the joy of seeing these very goals accomplished."

Cheryl will not tell you what to do. She will listen empathically and offer her pastoral experience and therapeutic experience to assist you in making meaningful choices and changes for yourself.

Qualifications

• M.S. in 2009 from the College of St. Joseph in Rutland, VT
• M.Div. in 1987 from Union Theological Seminary in Richmond, VA

License and State: 0701008922 Virginia

Specialties:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Grief
• Anger Management
• Domestic Violence

Crystal Miller-Williams, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Crystal is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings over the last four years. Crystal has primarily served the community in school-based therapeutic programs to include group therapy, school-based outpatient, and individual therapy to provide support with ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief/loss, and life stressors.

Crystal attended Liberty University where she received her Master of Arts in Professional Counseling. She utilizes an eclectic approach to counseling including techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and faith-based counseling. Crystal has also administered clinical assessments for three years, helping children, adolescents, and adults connect with numerous mental health services.

Crystal enjoys providing support and encouragement to individuals from all walks of life to promote hope and healing. She has resided in the Lynchburg area for 12 years and enjoys spending time with her husband and two young daughters.

Education

University of Michigan-Flint
MSN

Specialties

• ADHD
• Depression
• Bipolar Disorder
• Medication Management

Debra Morton, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Debra Robbins Morton is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has 23 years of experience providing mental health therapy and medication management. As a nurse Debra has delivered babies, taught childbirth and parenting, and cared for various medical troubles.

Debra completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at the University of Virginia, her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Norfolk State University, her Master of Science in Nursing as Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) at Old Dominion University, and her PMHNP at Virginia Commonwealth University.

Debra’s patients are grateful for her calm, supportive, and informed style of teaching them everything they will need to attain their best mental health.

Education

Virginia Commonwealth University
PMHNP

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Bipolar
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Sleep or Insomnia

Fawn Workman, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

Fawn Workman is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner (PMHNP) in Virginia with over 8 years of experience assisting adult clients struggling to cope with OCD, low self-esteem, insomnia-related issues, stress, trauma, women’s issues, anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, grief, difficult life transitions, and more.

Fawn looks forward to your consultation and is ready to help provide you with a unique psychiatric plan to help you attain your mental health goals with her expertise and professional support.

Education

Frontier Nursing University
Master's in Nursing and Post Master's Psychiatry Specialization

Specialties

• Medication management
• Depression
• Anxiety
• PTSD
• Women’s mental health
• Special interest in Tourette’s Syndrome

Jennifer Dishner, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Jennifer Dishner is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has worked with a wide variety of populations in many different settings including public schools, inpatient hospital units, and community work. Helping individuals and families find their strengths and self-worth is a major role of Jennifer's clinical work. It is through this clinical work that she believes clients are best able to realize their potential growth and maintain positive change.

Jennifer received her undergraduate degree in Psychology at Longwood University in Farmville, Virginia, and her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Lynchburg College. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and solution-focused therapy treatment modalities. Jennifer teaches mindfulness practices to help bring compassion and awareness to feelings and moments.

Jennifer's personal interests include traveling, organizing, reading, trying new recipes in the kitchen, and spending time with family and friends.

Education

Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Lynchburg College

Specialties

• Major Depression
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• Bipolar Disorder.
• Sudden life changes
• Infertility
• Stress impacting daily functioning
• End of life
• Grief and loss
• Everyday anxiety and phase of life issues
• Parenting and behavioral issues
• Child and adolescent mental health
• Trauma

Josephine Dakin-Davis, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the of state Virginia. With over 15 years of clinical nursing experience, I came to the realization that a sound mind is the precursor to the sound body hence my ardent passion for Mental Health. 

I graduated from George Mason University 2010 with my BSN, after ten years of nursing in diverse areas including mental health, I decided to get my MSN degree from Walden University, specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My vast experience has helped me to understand the philosophy of mental health and my nursing education has exposed me to a variety of health care settings. I’m goal driven, detailed oriented nurse practitioner, with patient satisfaction at the top of my professional agenda. I aim to create a cordial, warm and collaborative relationship with my peers and patients.

Education

Walden University
Master of Science in Nursing

Specialties

• Medication Management

Katherine Hughes, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Katherine Hughes is a dual, board-certified Nurse practitioner with specialties in family and psychiatric mental health. She received her undergraduate nursing degree from Georgetown University in 1996, her masters in family specialty in 2012 from George Mason University, her post master's certificate in psychiatric mental health specialty in 2019 from George Mason University and her doctorate from Maryville University in 2015.

Katherine's goal is to build a collaborative relationship with patients, listen to their unique needs and implement a plan that affects positive change. She utilizes a combination of medication management and psychotherapy when necessary, implementing cognitive behavioral, mindfulness and solution focused therapy techniques. As a nurse practitioner, Katherine looks at and values the whole person when considering treatment goals.

Education

George Mason University
Maryville University

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Bipolar Disorder
• Dementia

Lea Gaines, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Lea (Lee) Gaines is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LPC, LMFT) who has over 20 years of experience providing compassionate, therapeutic care to adults with histories of trauma, self-harm, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and grief.

Lea completed her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and Secondary Math Ed and her Bachelor's degree in Christian Education at Ouachita University in Arkadelphia, AR.  She then received her Master's degree in Marriage & Family Counseling and Christian Education from Southwestern Seminary in Ft. Worth, TX.  Lea has specialty certifications as a Psychotraumatologist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Level 2, Technology-Assisted Counselor, and has completed Internal Family Systems Therapy, Level 1. She uses internal family systems therapy (IFS) and Christian-based approaches to assist clients in meeting their goals.

Lea spent many years in counseling for her own trauma and knows what a difficult road recovery can be. She desires to assist clients in building trust with themselves and others through healing damaged emotions from past trauma. Lea strives to provide unconditional connectedness and clarity within a calming environment, and believes in a teamwork-based approach to your health and healing.

Education

Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling and Christian Education
Southwestern Seminary

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Bipolar Disorder
• Trauma/PTSD

Lydia Sharp, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Lydia Sharp is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner (PMHNP-BC) from Virginia, with 5 years of experience assisting children, adolescents, and adults with such issues as anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, anger problems, and other complex psychiatric conditions.

Lydia earned her Master's degree in Nursing Education. She previously served over 26 years in the military in a variety of patient settings such as Medical-Surgical Nursing and Perioperative Nursing (Walter Reed Army Hospital), and as a Nurse Administrator serving in Army Combat Support Hospitals located in California and Fort Bragg, and much more. She also gained direct psychiatric experience and knowledge by working in a Behavioral Health Service Community Health Clinic, which was also part of a behavioral school for troubled youths.

Lydia will prescribe and manage medications, diagnose and assess psychiatric problems, identify health goals, record symptoms and problems, provide therapeutic treatment, and educate clients and their families about mental health. Partner with Lydia to find the treatment methods that work best for you.

Education

Regis College
PMHNP

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Depression
• ADHD
• Behavioral Issues
• Women's Issues

Meghan Rise, PMHNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

Meghan Rise is a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Virginia who has been working in psychiatric care since 2013. Meghan has worked in many different capacities as a mental health provider including working with adults, children, and families across the lifespan. She received her Bachelor of Science and her Master of Science in Nursing from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia. 

Meghan is highly experienced in medication management and treatment for clients struggling with depression, anxiety, and mood disorders, as well as a variety of individual mental health disorders. She believes medication is a tool to help cope with mental health disorders and can be highly effective when paired with other treatments such as therapy. 

Meghan’s strength is listening to your needs and finding solutions to help meet your goals. She aims to build a warm and respectful partnership with each of her clients. She looks forward to working with you!

Education

Virginia Commonwealth University
Master's in Nursing

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety disorders (Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, and PTSD)
• Bipolar and Mood Disorders 
• ADHD 
• Postpartum Depression / Anxiety
• Grief / Adjustment Disorders

Nessalyn Dearce, Resident in Counseling

Philosophy of Care

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.

Education

Master of Science in Education in Counseling
Old Dominion University

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Trauma
• Stress Management
• Life Transitions
• Mood Disorders
• LGBTQIA+
• Chronic Illness
• Academic/Career/Work Issues

Nicole Powers, PMHNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

Nicole Powers is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has 5 years of experience in the field. Nicole specializes in medication management. She completed her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Virginia Commonwealth University.

Nicole believes in a holistic, client-focused care approach when it comes to treating her patients. She wants to treat the person in their entirety. Everyone's care is individualized and with therapy and medication recommendations. Nicole believes these are the building blocks for an excellent treatment plan and quality of life.

Education

Virginia Commonwealth University
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Specialties

Medication Management

Robert O’Byrne, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care 

Robert O’Byrne is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner (PMHNP) with more than 17 years of professional experience working with adults and seniors who are seeking assistance in coping with stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic fatigue, familial conflict, chronic illness, life transitional difficulties, and much more.

Robert earned his Bachelor's degree in Nursing from the University of Florida and his Master's degree in Nursing from the University of Virginia. As a Nurse Practitioner, he has worked in both the acute care setting (inpatient) as well the outpatient settings. Robert served in the Navy for 25 years practicing as a clinician, as well as holding a variety of leadership roles that include Director of Mental Health and Medical Director.

Robert strives to offer every client an unprecedented level of personalized treatment, creating individualized plans that seek to address every client's specific needs. With Robert's assistance, you'll start working together towards a better quality of life with psychiatric care from Thriveworks.

Education

University of Virginia
Master's in Nursing

Specialties:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• PTSD

Shirley Hudson, MSN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C

Philosophy of Care

Shirley Hudson is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) who is passionate about providing evidence-based and personalized care to adult clients. Shirley began her health career treating patients in a wide variety of settings including spinal cord injury, intensive care, hematology, oncology, and medical surgical units. After years of practice as a registered nurse, she fulfilled her goal of completing her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Old Dominion University and began practice as an FNP, specializing in gastroenterology and urology.

Through her years of experience at the hospital bedside and clinic, Shirley became more aware of the increasing need for psychiatric mental health care providers not only in underserved communities, but in all communities. In an effort to increase access to psychiatric and mental health services, Shirley continued her education and earned her Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification.

Shirley believes that the best patient outcomes are built on the foundation of a strong and authentic patient/provider relationship. She values the client as an integral part of the treatment team and works diligently to provide education about all aspects of the mutually agreed-upon treatment plan, including medication and non-medication therapies. Shirley also has a mission to reduce the stigma of psychiatric disorders by educating patients, families, and the community about mental health disorders to reduce risk, promote wellness, and achieve healing.

Education

Liberty University
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post Graduate Certificate

Old Dominion University
Master of Science in Nursing

Hampton University
Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Specialties

• 18+ Medication Management
• Anxiety
• Depression
• ADHD
• Eating Disorders
• Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
• Trauma and PTSD
• Christian

Uche Umejei, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Uche Umejei is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is licensed in the State of Virginia with over 20 years’ experience as a Family Nurse Practitioner.  She has been working in Mental Health and Behavioral Services for over 10 years.  She is experienced in treating adults with both medical and mental illnesses.  Being both Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, she applies integrative health care model in dealing with her patients.

Uche completed her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing at Norfolk State University, Master’s degree at Hampton University as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Doctorate degree at Old Dominion University, all in Virginia.  She completed her Post Master’s degree at the University of New Hampshire as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP).  In her training as a PMHNP, she acquired extensive knowledge with children’s and adults’ mental health care such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar disorder, substance abuse and Insomnia.

Uche focuses on evaluating and diagnosing patients, along with treating them with psychotherapies. She prescribes medications and focuses on a holistic approach to healthcare. She diagnoses mental health issues, including substance abuse, depression, PTSD, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, anxiety disorder for both adults and children. With you working with her, she will be able to manage your mental illness and get you back to living your normal life. She is responsible for assessing your mental health status by studying your medical history, performing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and identify risk factors that might be affecting your mental health. She manages your medications and ensures that your medications are accomplishing their intended job and also manage whatever side effects they may have.

She is compassionate and empathetic.  She educates and informs patients and their families about mental health issues and steps they can take to boost their care.  She takes care of mental illness of patients ranging from pediatrics to geriatrics and all people between.  She determines most effective plan of care by utilizing the knowledge of psychotherapy modalities and psychopharmacology, and in collaboration with other professionals to provide the best treatment for the patient.  She feels rewarded when she sees the changes and growth in her patients that she has facilitated.

Education

Hampton University
Family Nurse Practitioner

Old Dominion University
Doctorate

Specialties

• ADHD for both children and adult
• Anxiety disorder
• Bipolar disorder
• Depression
• Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Substance Abuse
• Insomnia
• Eating disorder

Vanessa Turner, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Vanessa Turner is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia who has 10 years in the mental health field servicing adults and children with numerous mental health diagnoses. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Virginia State University and received her Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from South University.

Vanessa utilizes a holistic approach that includes cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, emotional regulation, strength based and solution focused therapy, as well as collaborative treatment planning with involved providers.  Vanessa’s flexibility with selection of treatment approaches allows her to meet the needs of every unique individual, family, and/or couple. 

Vanessa seeks to establish a warm and caring relationship with you in order to assist in building on your strengths and better collaborate with you towards meeting your goals and living the meaningful life you value and desire.

Education

South University
Master of Arts in Professional Counseling

Specialties

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Mindfulness Based
• Emotional Regualtion
• Strength Based
• Solution Focused Therapy
• Collaborative Treatment Planning

Wykemia Swan, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Wkyemia Swan is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of nursing experience. She specializes in assisting adults and seniors who are suffering from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, chronic stress, fatigue, and more.

Wkyemia's personal experience with mental illness makes her especially passionate about providing effective treatment. Her desire is to help put you on the path to living a happier more meaningful life. Wykemia's goal is for you to achieve mental stability. She'll help you live up to your full potential through restorative communication and medication management

Take your life back, with assistance from Wykemia. Don’t let your lack of mental stability continue to control you. Allow her to assist you along your ourney. With proper treatment and support from Wkyemia, accomplishing your personal goals can become not only a possibility but a reality.

Education

Walden University
Master of Science in Nursing

Specialties

• Medication Management
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Anger
• Self Esteem
• Stress

Caitlyn Patey, LCSW

Philosophy of Care

Caitlyn Patey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has experience in individual, group, and couples counseling with adults ages 18 and older. Her specialties include grief and loss, relationship concerns, family of origin concerns, daily life stressors, anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, women's issues, and life transitions. Caitlyn also has expertise working with the geriatric population. In addition, she is experienced in the caregiver role for ill or aging family members, Alzheimer's, dementia, and stroke recovery.

Caitlyn completed her Master of Social Work graduate studies at Virginia Commonwealth University. Her approach to therapy is person-centered and involves meeting her clients where they are. She believes that therapy requires vulnerability and courage and works to create a safe and affirming setting for that work to occur. Caitlyn works primarily from a cognitive-behavioral framework through interpersonal and feminist theory lenses.

Caitlyn believes that how an individual thinks about their situation is influenced by societal and interpersonal messaging which help to form a cognitive framework that influences the emotional experience of the individual. When Caitlyn isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, finding new things to do in the city, reading, being outside, and spending time with her pet.

Education

Master of Social Work
Virginia Commonwealth University

Specialties

• Grief and loss
• Relationship concerns
• Family of origin concerns
• Daily life stressors
• Anxiety Disorders
• Grief/Bereavement
• Depression
• PTSD (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder)
• Women's issues
• Life/role transitions.

Hui-Chen Wong, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Hui-Chen Wong is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 10 years of experience providing individual counseling for children, adolescents and adults across the lifespan. She specializes in treating

Ms. Wong received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Social Welfare and a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA. Ms. Wong has over 10 years experience working with individuals across the lifespan. This has included work with the Severely Mentally Ill (SMI) population. Her work draws upon crisis intervention, trauma informed care, mindfulness, and meditation.

Ms. Wong utilizes evidence-based treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based approaches to help individuals achieve improved emotional and behavioral functioning. Ms. Wong's goal is to provide a comfortable, supportive environment upon which a strong clinical relationship can be built.  It is her belief that through this partnership clients are best able to draw on their individual strengths and capabilities.

Education

Masters Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling
Virginia Commonwealth University

Specialties

• Mood Disorders
• Trauma and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
• Acute Stress
• Attention Deficity Hyperactive Disorder
• Impulse Control Disorders
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Oppositional and Conduct Disorders
• Behavioral Issues within the Family
• Grief and Loss
• Work/Life Balance
• Psychosis

Yesenia Adent, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Yesenia Adent, a Licensed Professional Counselor received her graduate degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Yesenia works with adolescents (13 to 18 years of age), adults, geriatrics, families, and couples. She is fluent in Spanish.

Stephanie Valeri, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Stephanie Valeri is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has spent over 12 years as a nurse emphasizing the importance of therapeutic communication, empathy, and patient education. Stephanie has spent her time as a PMHNP focusing on treatment of multiple disorders across the lifespan. She understands that she is not just treating symptoms, but a person with a past, present, and future. Stephanie feels in helping patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options; they can make the best treatment decisions for themselves.

Stephanie completed her bachelor's degree in Psychology at Virginia Tech and then her Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN). She has returned to her love of behavioral health and completed her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Gonzaga University. Stephanie believes in developing a strong therapeutic relationship where there is open communication and time for questions so the patient feels comfortable when they leave the appointment with their plan of care, and understands the next steps if this plan is not effective.

Stephanie believes a therapeutic relationship is the foundation of a strong treatment plan. In this line of thinking she takes the time to listen and understand the patient's history so that she can understand not just where they are now, but how they got here. Stephanie then works to help her patients meet their own goals for their future through medication management and therapeutic techniques.

Education

Gonzaga University
Master's in Nursing

Specialties

• Major Depressive Disorder
• Generalized Anxiety disorder
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Insomnia and other sleep disturbances
• Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder
• Bipolar I and II
• Social Anxiety
• Smoking Cessation

Joy Daigle Book, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Joy Daigle Book is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who provides individual, couples, and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. Joy treats children as young as 6 years of age. Joy has experience working with children diagnosed with anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Her clinical work includes issues relevant to women, such as balancing career and parenting expectations, managing workplace prejudice and inequities, recovering from sexual assault, healing from childhood trauma, developing assertive and confident communication patterns, and managing anxiety. Additionally, Joy collaborates with parents and guardians to develop parenting strategies and approaches that cultivate a healthy, empowering family atmosphere. She has also worked with many families navigating the challenges of divorce and custody issues by providing counseling to the children.

Joy completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Cross-cultural Studies, her Master of Divinity with a specialization in Cross-cultural Studies, and an Educational Specialist degree in Mental Health Counseling. Outside of work, Joy enjoys spending time with her family, singing and playing with her children, attending and participating in community events, reading a lot of fiction, baking, crafting, and attending cultural events.

Joy provides an individualized approach to each person and family that works within each unique situation, utilizes strengths within that system, and raises awareness to specific hurdles that may be hindering wellness. Utilizing play and art therapies, Joy seeks to create a safe, welcoming environment for children that empowers them with social skills, coping strategies for managing emotions, and behavioral training that builds personal responsibility. She utilizes a variety of therapeutic approaches targeted to specific client needs. Joy strongly believes in celebrating strengths and past victories in establishing treatment plans for current challenges. As such, she incorporates many different techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), narrative and solution-focused therapies, mindfulness and spiritual practices, play and art therapies, and career construction theory.

Education

Master of Divinity, Specialty in Cross-Cultural Studies

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Autism Spectrum
• ADD/ADHD
• PTSD

Afua Ayim, PMHNP, DNP

Philosophy of Care

Afua is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Virginia. She has 15 years of experience in nursing and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. Afua acknowledges that each patient is a unique individual and should be treated as such. She engages with you to work together to achieve desired goals of treatment while respecting your preferences as the patient.  She works to provide patients and families with accurate and detailed information about their diagnosis to empower them to participate in their care.

Education 

Specialties

• Ages 18+
• Medication Management

Karen Jones, LCSW

Philosophy of Care

Karen Jones is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Karen brings 20 years of experience from the field of children and family services. She will provide a safe and open environment for people seeking clinical support with issues from depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and post-traumatic stress disorder related to abuse/neglect.

Years of working with children and families has prepared her for treating late teens, and adults. Karen specializes in working with families, particularly blended families and couples. Karen works with parents and co-parents on issues relating to childhood behavioral issues, adult mental health issues, and other issues involving family and marital conflict.

Karen has worked in the community and inpatient psychiatric hospitals providing clinical and assessment services for individuals, families, and groups. One of her clinical approaches is based on system theory which guides people to find purposeful connections for healthy functioning. Karen’s treatment perspective values individuals’ goals and works towards maintaining balance in a society that demands more than most of us have to give. She understands the need for people to go on their individual journey towards healing and will encourage them along the way to find their direction and strength. For some it may take a life time of journeys, but quitting is not an option.

On a personal note, Karen enjoys the outdoors, running, sailing and mud obstacle races. She and her husband raised two children and are enjoying time together as empty nesters.

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Grief
• PTSD

Chinyere Ugwanyi, DNP, PMHNP

Chinyere is a Board Certified licensed, Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a BSN degree from Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, an MSN degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA—all with honors. Chinyere has 13 years of healthcare experience with 12 years of that as a psychiatric nurse and 7 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment and medication management to patients with varying degrees of mental illness, in inpatient/outpatient settings. In addition, Chinyere has worked in a major community mental health system alongside nursing homes and feels comfortable working with a variety of mental and behavioral health conditions, including serious mental illnesses She has expertise in treating mainly adult patients, but can work with adolescent patients as well. She treats patients with disorders that include anxiety, depression, personality disorders, ADHD, PTSD, substance abuse, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Chinyere’s approach to care of her patients is straightforward and clear. She is very professional, caring, respectful and strives to offer personalized mental health services. Chinyere seeks to build a lasting therapeutic relationship with you, while showing empathy with listening ears to your mental health concerns.

Chinyere’s goal is to provide every patient with the highest quality care while empowering them to live a successful, fulfilled life, alongside being in control of their mental health.