Chesterfield Counselors

Ariane Karpf, Resident in Counseling

Philosophy of Care

Ariane “Ari” Serena Karpf, a current Resident in Counseling pursuing her license in VA, has 20 years of experience in working in mental health. An initial focus on research, academia, but ended up organically moving toward primarily community based and outreach programs, serving all populations in all situations.

Born and raised in Europe, she completed her Bachelors of the Sciences & Arts, as well as her Master of Rehabilitation Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University/Medical College, seeking 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 circumstance. 

Ari utilizes person- centered, collaborative, strength based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, solution- and emotionally focused approaches to therapy always maintaining the creativity, flexibility, and awareness necessary to best meet every individual need.

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/mood related issues
• Dual diagnosis/substance abuse
• Stress management
• Self-esteem/Eating disorders
• LGTBTQ+

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

Britney Hill, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Are you struggling with issues related to depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, or major life hurdles? Are you suffering from a traumatic experience and having a hard time getting back to your normal routine? Are you single or divorced and having a hard time dealing with this phase of life transition? If this is you, it may be time to schedule a session. Britney invites you to schedule a session as she provides an empathetic, non-judgmental atmosphere for free expression, growth, and positive change. Britney is dedicated to assisting individuals as they cope with the ups and downs of life and encouraging them, that they can take control of their life again! 

Britney is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with 9 years of experience partnering with children, adolsecents, adults, and families. With 9 years of experience, Britney’s expertise includes Trauma related disorders and symptoms, Depression, Anxiety, Anger Management, Domestic Violence, Career and Phase of life changes, Grief and Loss, Life Stressors, Personality Disorders, Substance Abuse Disorders, Self-esteem building skills, and Relationship Challenges.  Britney received both her bachelors and masters from Norfolk State University and is now pursuing her Doctorate of Education in Community Care and Counseling with a focus in Traumatology at Liberty University.  

Britney utilizes collaborative, strength based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, and solution focused approaches in therapy while maintaining creativity, flexibility and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual, family, and couple. Together we will work to help you gain control of your life AGAIN!

Education

Master of Arts in Community Clinical Psychology
Norfolk State University

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Stress management
• Self esteem
• Life transitions
• Grief
• Health/Medical Problems
• Anger management
• Panic Disorders
• Eating Disorders
• ADHD
• Bipolar Disorder
• Personality Disorders
• Schizophrenia Spectrum and Psychotic Disorders
• Trauma Related Disorders
• Biofeedback
• Christian Counseling
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Mindfulness
• Family Therapy
• Academic Stress
• Occupational/ Work/ Career Stress
• Self-injurious behaviors
• Crisis Counseling and De-escalation
• Motivational Interviewing 

Camille Brenke, PMHNP

**Camille offers services in Spanish.

Philosophy of Care

Camille is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Virginia who has experience working with children and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, psychosis and dementia. She completed her Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing 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. She has a special interest in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders as well as alternative and complementary medicines.

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

Cheri Castleberry, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Cheri is a licensed professional counselor that has been working with clients for over 10 years and has experience working with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship concerns, and other life experiences. She enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults through individual, family and couples therapy modalities. She believes that each person has their own story that has shaped what they are currently experiencing and strives to foster a safe space where clients can tell their story, gain insight into how that has impacted them, and create a new reality that is more fulfilling. Therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered, strengths based, narrative and family systems.

Education

Master of Science in Education
Henderson State University

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Grief
• Relationship Issues

Courtney Graves, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Courtney is a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with almost 6 years experience as a Registered Nurse and nearing 4 years experience evaluating and treating individuals with a wide variety of psychiatric disorders in her work as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Originally from Austin, Texas, Courtney obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with distinction from Hendrix College in 2012, and her Master of Science in Nursing from the Vanderbilt University School of Nursing in 2017. 

Courtney believes in and is committed to a holistic approach to psychiatric care, assisting clients in building comprehensive, and collaborative treatment plans. She understands the importance of including therapy, physical health and mindfulness practices in addition to pharmacological treatment in order to best address her clients’ psychiatric symptoms and improve their overall quality of life. 

Courtney seeks to build a genuine, authentic connection with you in order to best understand your needs and how to work with you to help manage your symptoms so you can be fully present and enjoy your life.  

Education

Vanderbilt University School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing

Specialties

• Obsessive compulsive disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Depression
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Social Anxiety 
• ADHD
• Panic disorder
• Adjustment issues/disorders
• Bipolar disorders
• Other mood disorders

Crystal Miller-Williams, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Crystal Miller-Williams is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary and psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. Over the course of ten years of medical practice, Crystal has had the privilege of working in many practice areas, including primary care, family practice, gynecology, and internal medicine.

Crystal prefers the patient centered approach, along with the integration of  therapy, daily physical movement and improved sleep practices as foundations for care. Overall Crystal tends to be more conservative in her prescribing practices, especially in regards to prescribing controlled substances such as benzodiazepines.

Education

University of Michigan-Flint
MSN

Specialties

• ADHD
• Depression
• Bipolar Disorder
• Medication Management

David Choi, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

David Choi is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Virginia and New Hampshire. He has nearly 6 years of experience working in the mental health field including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorders, and schizophrenic disorder as advanced registered nurse practitioner and registered nurse. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, he has experience providing psychiatric care across several practice settings, including acute inpatient, outpatient, and dual diagnosis treatment. He graduated magnum cum laude in Bachelor of Science degree in political science and pre-medical courses from SUNY Stony Brook University. He completed his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Rutgers University in Newark, NJ and was awarded with nursing leadership and received his Master of Science in Nursing from Drexel University.

David Choi prides himself on providing patient-centered and individualized care with a holistic approach. Also, he uses sound reasoning to solve mental health problems and keeps up to date on current practices. He approaches all patients with an open mind to achieve an accurate diagnosis and a responsible treatment plan. David Choi maintains a positive approach in handling mental health problems and aims to develop a safe medication management to achieve mental wellness.

Education

Drexel University
Master of Science in Nursing

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Mood Disorders
• Personality Disorders
• PTSD
• Panic

Diane Justusson, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Diane Justusson is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience as a Women’s Health Provider and Midwife prior to transitioning to work as a full-time Mental Health Provider 2 years ago.  She is dedicated to Mental Health care as the fundamental basis for enhancing wellness for everyone. Diane enjoys partnering with adults and older adolescents to collaborate on individualized medication management plans. She works with people seeking help with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, women’s issues. She completed her Master of Science at Oregon Health and Science University and her Post-Master’s Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate with Frontier Nursing University.  

Diane will help to support you with medication management in a respectful shared decision-making process. Diane is experienced with Cognitive Behavioral Techniques and with alternative to medications and/or adjunctive treatments. She will fully explore all your concerns and questions with you. 

Diane’s goal is to help you to find prolonged wellness to meet your unique life circumstances and goals. If you are ready to get started, she invites you to reach out to ThriveWorks to begin.

Education

Oregon Health and Science University
Master of Science

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Stress management/ Life transitions
• Women’s issues
• Anger management
• Mood Disorders

Elizabeth Onyejekwe, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Elizabeth Onyejekwe is a Board Certified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Virginia with prescriptive authority. She is trained in psychiatry across the lifespan, and has 7 years of experience in working with adults aged 18 years and above, with behavioral and mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD. She received her Bachelor in Nursing Science at Grand Canyon University and Masters in Nursing/Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Walden University. Elizabeth provides medication management and counseling to mental health clients. With more than two decades of experience in patient care, Elizabeth applies evidence-based practice in psychiatric medication management to ensure that each of her clients receive excellent treatment for the best possible outcome. She treats her clients with compassion, dignity, and respect, and enjoys helping them to become the best version of themselves. Elizabeth cares about your overall well-being. She seeks to build rapport and collaborate with you in managing your medications, so that you are empowered to live the life you desire, to the fullest. She has a flexible schedule to accommodate each individual, unique needs. She is a member of ANA, APNA and Sigma Theta Tau Society.

Education

Walden University
MSN, PMHNP

Specialties

• Mood Disorders
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Bipolar Disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Stress Management
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
• PTSD
• ADHD

Elizabeth Pak, PMHNP

**Elizabeth offers services in English, Spanish, and Korean

Philosophy of Care

Elizabeth Pak is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Virginia. She has experience working with adults seeking treatment for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, psychosis, among other mental health conditions. Elizabeth is well versed in conducting psychiatric evaluations, prescribing medications and managing follow up care. She has worked in a community mental health clinic serving the Latino population in Philadelphia.

Prior to becoming a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Elizabeth has worked as a Registered Nurse for 4 years on a transplant and bariatric surgery unit at Penn Medicine. She completed her Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing at the University of Pennsylvania. She also holds a minor in Spanish. Elizabeth has an ethnic background of being Korean but also has a heart for the Latino and Brazilian cultures. She is able to provide care in respective languages as needed.

Elizabeth believes in the importance of holistic care that is individually tailored. She believes that the optimal care and treatment comes from collaboration among the individual, family members, prescriber, therapist and others. She values working together with the individual as a team to identify the correct diagnosis and treatment plan. It is Elizabeth’s goal to enable individuals to reach their true potential and live a purposeful life. She considers various factors in an individual’s mental health including emotional, physical and spiritual components. As a Christian, Elizabeth understands the value and impact of spirituality in one’s overall well being.

Education

University of Pennsylvania

Specialties

• Psychiatric evaluation & Medication management
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Trauma/PTSD
• Bipolar disorder
• Psychosis
• Insomnia

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

Philosophy of Care

Fawn Workman is a dual-board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in the state of Virginia, and has more than 20 years of nursing experience in providing biopsychosocial care to patients and families of all ages and stages. Fawn’s experience as both a ‘physical’ and ‘mental’ health NP assists her in her holistic approach to care.  She completed her Bachelors in Nursing at Liberty University, and both her Master’s in Nursing degree (FNP) and post-master’s psychiatry specialization (PMHNP) at Frontier Nursing University. 

Fawn desires to work with you to develop a plan for treatment. She prescribes medication, when appropriate, as an add-on to non-medication therapies. These may include (as indicated and accepted by you): counseling and behavioral therapies; lifestyle, social, spiritual, and self-care needs; consideration of possible underlying medical/ health needs and conditions that can contribute to symptoms (in collaboration with your medical care providers); meditation/ prayer; and other therapies. 

Fawn recognizes that most people, at some point, have rough patches in life. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness. She encourages you to reach out and discuss the issues that are most important to you on your path towards mental wellness, and together help you realize and strengthen your abilities, and work towards meeting your goals.

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

Germaine Kelley-Pope, PMHNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

Germaine is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certified to provide mental health and substance abuse services to patients across the lifespan. She has over 12 years of experience working as a nurse in the mental health specialty. She has special interest in mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD and substance use disorders. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing and her Master of Science in Nursing from Virginia Commonwealth University. She is a member of American Psychiatric Nurses Association, the American Nurses Association, and the Sigma Theta Tau International Honors Society.

As a dedicated and compassionate provider, she provides patient centered care that respects each patient's unique physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and environmental strengths and challenges. She works with patients to explore the root cause of problems and the best treatment plan for meeting the patient’s goal. This can include medications, psychotherapy or combination of both.

Life is full of challenges that can be difficult to overcome without inner strength, effective coping skills, and a good support system. Germaine strives to provide every patient with the support, skills, and unconditional respect they need as they embark on their journey to wellness and recovery.

Education

Virginia Commonwealth University
Master's in Nursing

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Depression
• ADHD
• Sleep Disorder

Ibrahim Iftoni, PMHNP

Philosophy of care

People have great ability to grow and develop that is affected but not destroyed by mental disorders. Psychiatrist mental health nurse practitioners nurtures the capacity for resilience and growth as well as diagnose and treat illness. The key element of mental health care includes a bio-psychosocial perspective, recognition of the importance of healing relationships and emphasis on symptom management and self care. The PMHNP effectively advocate for patients to obtain the service they need are available in the current treatment system, to utilize other community resources such as self-help organizations and to advocate for the development of more effective services.

Education

Walden University
Masters Degree

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Stress
• Panic
• ADHD
• Depression
• Mood disorders

Jennifer Dishner, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Jennifer Dishner is a Licensed Professional Counselor who 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 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 Jennifer believes clients are best able to realize their potential growth and maintain positive change.  Jennifer 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.

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

Education

Masters 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

Jill Jones, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

Jill Jones is a dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Virginia. Jill has over 20 years of nursing experience in caring for patients throughout the lifespan from pediatrics to geriatrics in a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine from Old Dominion University, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Virginia and received her Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from The Catholic University of America. She later completed her Post-Master's Certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Liberty University. 

Jill focuses on patient-centered care offering comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management to her patients ages 18-65 with mental health conditions and disorders. 

Jill is a conservative provider and passionate about collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure there is a holistic approach to the care of her patients. She seeks to develop a strong rapport with her patients and families providing a safe and compassionate approach to clarity, wellness and overall health and well-being. 

Education

Catholic University of America
Master of Science in Nursing- Family Nurse Practitioner

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Medication Management
• Stress
• ADHD
• Behavioral Issues
• Emotional Disturbance
• School Issues
• Spirituality
• Trauma
• PTSD
• Elderly Persons Disorders
• Impulse Control Disorders

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, a Licensed Professional Counselor; Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the states of AR, TX, and VA, has over 20 years experience providing compassionate, therapeutic care to adults with histories of Trauma, Self-Harm, Eating Disorders, and Grief.  She completed her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Ed. and Secondary Math Ed., as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ed. at Ouachita University in Arkadelphia, AR.  She received her MA in Marriage & Family Counseling and Christian Ed. from Southwestern Seminary in Ft. Worth, TX.  She spent 13 years in her first career as an educator before switching to her passion of counseling.  She has been working in the mental health field since 2001 and practicing as a licensed counselor since 2008.

Lea is experienced in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, and PTSD.  She has specialty certifications as a Psychotraumatologist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Level 2, Technology Assisted Counselor, and completed Internal Family Systems Therapy, Level 1.  She uses IFS and Christian based approaches to assist clients in meeting their goals.

Lea spent many years in counseling for her own trauma history 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.  She strives to provide unconditional connectedness and clarity within a calming environment.  She believes in a teamwork 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

Linda Modelfino, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Linda Modelfino is a psychiatric nurse practitioner in the state of Virginia who has  been working in healthcare for over 26 years. Linda’s background consists of  acute psychiatry in a hospital setting, ICU, management and education. She  assists her clients to overcome their difficulties with depression, anxiety, mood  instability, trauma, ADHD, behavioral and other disorders. She obtained her bachelor's degree in nursing from VCU/MCV and her Master’s degree in Nursing  from Wilkes University. 

Linda doesn’t just provide medication management to her patient’s but also seeks  to get to know her patients and understand what’s important to them, their  struggles, where they have been and assist them with helping to obtain their  goals for the future. She believes in a biopsychosocial approach to help patients  get to their highest level of functioning and life satisfaction. 

Life is always throwing curveballs, don’t struggle alone. Let’s collaborate together  and help your child who is struggling in school, your depression that keeps you  from being able to function or your mood instability that is causing problems  within the family. 

Education

Wilkes University
Master's in Nursing

Specialties

• Insomnia 
• Autism Spectrum Disorder 
• Personality Disorders 
• Trauma/PTSD 
• Adjustment disorders 
• Depression/Anxiety 
• ADHD 
• Bipolar disorders
• Child psychiatry

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 in the state of Virginia 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 in Psychology at Christopher Newport University and received her Master of Science in Education in Counseling from 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

I believe in a holistic approach when it comes to treating my patients. I want to treat the person in their entirety; meaning therapy and medication management. I believe 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

Olivia Glance, DNP, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care 

Olivia Glance is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management services. Olivia knows that, as Dr. David Satcher said, “There is no health without mental health.” Since mental health is essential to an individual’s overall wellbeing, she believes in a comprehensive approach to care, tailoring it to meet people’s individual needs. Her mission in practice is to provide the best mental healthcare to all of her clients, with the goal of improving their overall quality of life.

A believer in client-centered care, Olivia has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Although she treats clients struggling with a wide array of different psychiatric conditions, she is proudest of her work in eating disorders, having gained extensive experience treating and managing this very complex and often overlooked issue. Her mission is and always has been to provide the most comprehensive, highest quality care that she can to each individual that she encounters in her work, always taking the personal background, values, and beliefs of her patients into consideration when treating them.

Education

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Nursing

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Bipolar Disorder
• Mood Disorders
• Eating Disorders
• Personality Disorders
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Robert O’Byrne, PMHNP

Philosophy of care 

Robert O’Byrne earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Florida (‘92) and his Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Virginia (‘04). As a Nurse Practitioner he has worked in both the acute care setting (inpatient) as well the outpatient setting.

He 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.

Education

University of Virginia
Master's in Nursing

Specialties:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• PTSD

Sung “Sunny” Cheol Kim, PMHNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

Sunny Kim is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of Virginia who has 3 years of experience working with the adults who are seeking assistance with psychotropic medication management for depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia and substance abuse. Sunny received his Master of Science in Nursing at Virginia Commonwealth University and is experienced in psychiatry and addiction medicine.

Sunny utilizes trauma informed care model to create collaborative environments to provide the needs of every unique individual. Previous experiences in psychiatry and addiction medicine enables Sunny to practice without the stigma against mental health and addiction with evidence based care.

Sunny seeks to establish a stigma free relationship to assist you in building the strength that you need to live the meaningful life that you desire.

Education

Virginia Commonwealth University
Master of Science in Nursing

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Substance abuse
• Bipolar disorders
• Panic disorders
• ADHD

Suvi Hyytiainen, A-GNP, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Suvi Hyytiainen was born in Finland. Suvi completed her undergraduate nursing degree in Finland and has worked in Finland, Sweden and the United Kingdom prior to moving to the United States. Suvi has completed the graduate nursing degrees in the United States. Suvi is a board-certified adult geriatric and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Suvi believes in humanistic philosophy of holistic care for both mind and body and has a commitment to individualized and comprehensive care for the patients.

In her free time, Suvi enjoys outdoors, hiking with her friends and rescue Australian Cattle dog, Topi.

Education

Wilkes University
Post Graduate Certificate, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specialties

Walden University
Master of Science in Nursing, Adult-Geriatric Nurse Practitioner

Pirkanmaa Polytechnic
Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Specialties

• Depression, Bipolar and Other Mood Disorders
• Anxiety Disorders, Including PTSD
• Grief and Adjustment Disorders
• Insomnia
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Reminiscence Therapy

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

Caitlyn Patey, LCSW

Philosophy of Care

Caitlyn Patey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who completed her Master of Social Work graduate studies at Virginia Commonwealth University. Caitlyn has experience in individual, group, and couples counseling with adults ages 18 and older. Caitlyn also has expertise working with the geriatric population.

Caitlyn has experience conducting therapy with adult learners in the undergraduate, graduate, and medical academic settings. Caitlyn is also experienced in the following:

• Caregiver role for ill or aging family members
• Alzheimer’s Disease
• Dementia
• Stroke recovery

Caitlyn’s 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. She works primarily from a Cognitive Behavioral framework through Interpersonal and Feminist theory lenses. She 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.

Deyanira “China” Deschenes, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Deyanira Deschenes is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia who provides individual and couples counseling. She received her Bachelors Degree from Troy University, where she majored in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice. Deyanira completed her graduate studies at the University of Colorado, majoring in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an Emphasis in Addictions. Deyanira works with adults 18 year of age and older, couples and families.

Deyanira has a special interest in treating military, military affiliated members, and first responders. She is a military spouse of 9 years and has had several years of personal and professional experience serving these populations. Prior to joining Thriveworks, she was the Military Clinician at a local inpatient hospital, where she provided individual, group, and couples counseling for crisis stabilization, combat trauma, military sexual trauma, and substance abuse.

Deyanira’s clinical approach is by first providing a trusting and safe environment for her clients. She believes having a solid therapeutic relationship is the main building block to treatment. She draws from several treatment modalities and techniques depending on which ones best serve the client. These include but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, SMART Recovery, and etc. She is trained and experienced in multiple evidenced based treatments. Deyanira is also a trained Yoga Instructor and helps her clients connect their mind and body together. She believes in a individualized treatment approach and works to deliver a hollistic outcome.

Deyanira will help her clients create and obtain observable and measurable goals. She strives to help them draw upon their values and strengths in effort to help them thrive intrapersonally, within relationships, and other environments.

Outside of work, Deyanira enjoys living in the moment with her family, hiking, yoga, and eating carbs.

Education

Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an emphasis on Addiction
University of Colorado

Specialties

• Trauma
• Addictions (both behavioral and chemical)
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Bi-polar disorders

Dr. Allison Jackson, LCSW, CSOTP

Philosophy of Care

Dr. Allison Jackson is a licensed clinical social worker who obtained her undergraduate, graduate and PhD in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. With over 25 years of experience working in the mental health field, Allison is passionate about partnering with individuals, families, and couples in their healing process where so much opportunity for growth and resilience building exists.

Allison treats children (ages 5-12), adolescents (ages 13 years of age and older), adults, couples and families. Allison has worked with clients who have a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationships issues, parenting challenges, conduct behavior problems, and substance use and misuse. Her specific expertise and focus of her PhD was/is around persons experiencing trauma (childhood abuse or neglect, medical trauma, war or military related trauma, as well as other forms of trauma).

Allison uses  dialectical behavior informed approaches to therapy combined with cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma specific phase oriented therapeutic approaches when appropriate.  She is also a Certified Facilitator of Dr. Brené Brown's Daring Way™ curriculum (including the Rising Strong™ curriculum)  and use skills and techniques built from Dr. Brown’s research to support individuals in enhancing their emotional intelligence, addressing the underlying thoughts behind those emotions, rumbling with what lies beneath those thoughts and creating new skills and ways to show up in their present life.

Allison believes in research showing vulnerability is the greatest definition of courage. Reading this now, thinking about starting counseling and looking at parts of your life and/or relationships you want to address or enhance is such a courageous act of self-love.  If you think you might be a good fit with Allison’s approach to therapy, she would be honored to be a part of this brave work and support you in any ways she can.

In her free time, Allison spends time with her boyfriend, family, and pets. She enjoys traveling as well as playing card and board games.

Education

Masters in Social Work
Ph.D. in Social Work
Virginia Commonwealth University

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Communication Challenges (Relationship/Professional)
• Daily Life issues
• Depression
• Growth Work
• Family of Origin issues
• Family/Victim violence
• Grief
• Mood Disorders
• Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Substance Use and Misuse Disorders
• Life/Role Transitions

Hui-Chen Wong, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Hui-Chen Wong is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She provides individual counseling for children, adolescents and adults across the lifespan.  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 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, 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.

When not at work Ms. Wong enjoys spending time with her family, yoga, and traveling the world.

Education

Masters Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling
Virginia Commonwealth University

Specialties

• Mood disorders
• Trauma and PTSD (Posttraumatic 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

Jenee Johnson, LCSW, BCD

Philosophy of Care

Jenee Johnson is a licensed clinical social worker who obtained her undergraduate degree in Sociology from Greensboro College prior to pursuing a graduate degree in social work from Virginia Commonwealth University. With over 8 years of experience working in the mental health field, Jenee considers it a privilege to serve others in profession that she is so passionate about. She remains committed to journeying alongside her clients in helping them achieve growth and healing in their daily lives and relationships.

As a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work, Jenee has a wealth of professional and volunteer experience that enables her to practice as a advanced-generalist clinician who is comfortable engaging diverse populations. Jenee treats adolescents (ages 13 years of age and older), adults, geriatics and families.

She has extensive experience providing therapy services in community and outpatient settings to individuals and groups seeking assistance with better managing psychiatric symptoms. Additionally, Jenee has had experience in various health care arenas working with individuals experiencing mental health challenges combined with chronic medical issues in settings that included emergency medicine, inpatient and outpatient hospital units, hospice, and community free clinics.

Jenee believes that healing is a collaborative effort that requires authentic caring judgment, and she cooperatively assists her clients by drawing from a variety of methods to create a personalized approach for each human being and situation. She also recognizes that eliminating old and dysfunctional thought, feeling and behavior patterns can require a vast array of tools. Therefore, in order to help clients achieve their goal Jenee primarily works from psychodynamic theory, which explains that individuals can be shaped by unconscious forces often the result of early life experiences that end up influencing adult personality and relationships. However, Jenee also utilizes person-centered and strengths based techniques combined with mindfulness based modalities, and cognitive behavioral therapy as appropriate. In all cases Jenee is warm, open, encouraging and combines experience, education, and sense of humor with a down-to-earth, safe approach to therapy.

In her free time, Jenee is a true Richmond foodie and also enjoys being with her beloved dog Petey, gardening, and spending time with her family and close friends.

Education

Masters in Social Work
Virginia Commonwealth University

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Bipolar Disorder
• Chronic pain
• Depression
• Family/Victim violence
• Grief
• HIV/AIDS
• LGBTQ
• Mood Disorders
• Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Kristen Lee, LCSW

Philosophy of Care

Kristen Lee is a licensed clinical social worker who obtained her undergraduate and graduate degrees in social work from Virginia Commonwealth University. With over 13 years working in the mental health field, she has provided a wide range of therapeutic services to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Kristen enjoys empowering clients to learn more about themselves and to achieve their desired goals. In addition to her work at Thriveworks, she is an adjunct instructor with VCU’s Master of Social Work program.

Kristen has a wealth of experience providing interventions to clients who have an Autism Spectrum Diagnosis. She facilitates the Autism Spectrum Group at Thriveworks, and is also certified to perform the gold standard of Autism Spectrum testing, the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule 2 (ADOS 2). In 2018 she was awarded Thriveworks' Trailblazer Award for her efforts for clients with an Autism Spectrum Diagnosis and her related community outreach. 

Kristen is a 200 hour trained yoga teacher with a specialty in gentle hatha (traditional) yoga for mental health care. She enjoys helping clients to learn mindfulness and improve their mind-body-spirit connection through simple yoga practices to achieve emotional well-being. She believes that with guidance, yoga is an accessible tool, available to all clients, to use to better calm the mind and steady emotions.

As a Certified Trauma Practitioner, Kristen also has a unique skill set to help clients of all ages address issues of trauma and/or abuse. She understands the importance of building trust prior to processing traumatic experiences, and of always offering her office as a safe place to explore the impacts of trauma. Kristen also has extensive knowledge of military culture, and enjoys supporting service members, veterans, and their families. In 2017 she received the Serving Our Veterans Behavioral Health Certificate.  

Kristen approaches therapy eclectically in order to utilize the best therapeutic approach for each individual client. In all cases, she utilizes person-centered and strengths based techniques. She is able to use a wide variety of therapeutic approaches including: expressive therapies with elements of art and play, narrative therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy including Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavior therapy and schema therapy, and the Gottman method. She is often described as intuitive, professional, approachable, and empathetic.

In her free time, Kristen enjoys yoga, watching VCU basketball games, walking her dogs, Simba and Nala, and spending time with her family.

Education

Master of Social Work
Virginia Commonwealth University

Specialties

• Trauma
• Mindfulness
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Ramona Peters, LCSW

Philosophy of Care

Ramona is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with seven years of experience providing psychosocial support and counseling to adults ages 18 and older and families. 

Born and raised in Roanoke, VA, Ramona fell in love with Richmond while attending Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) for her undergraduate degree in psychology. After several years in the field working as a behavior specialist and disability advocate, Ramona returned to VCU and obtained her Master of Social Work (MSW).

Ramona has worked as a medical social worker in hospice, counseling individuals and their families through the often traumatic process of accepting the terminal diagnosis, as well as coping with grief and loss both before and after death.

Recognized for her empathy, patience, and attentiveness, Ramona has a passion for providing emotional support to others and helping them identify and strengthen coping skills during crisis situations. She meets clients where they are and uses motivational interviewing to assist in identifying their readiness to change. She loves guiding her clients through the process and uses a person-centered, strengths-based approach to help individuals reach their full potential and achieve their self-identified goals at their own pace.

Ramona recognizes there is no one-size-fits-all method of treatment and uses several theories to support her clients, including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and aspects of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) such as mindfulness.

Outside of the office, you can find Ramona with her husband and two young children exploring the food, live music, and outdoor scene that Richmond has to offer.

Education

Master of Social Work
Virginia Commonwealth University

Specialties

• Alzheimer’s and other dementias
• Anger management
• Anxiety
• Caregiver support
• Chronic illness
• Communication
• Conflict resolution
• Depression
• Grief
• Interpersonal relationships
• Stress
• Suicidal Ideation
• Terminal illness
• Traumatic brain injury

Rochelle Watson, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Rochelle Watson is a  licensed professional counselor with 5 years of post graduate experience. Rochelle completed her undergraduate studies in Sociology. She holds Master of Science Degrees in both  Social and Community Service and Mental Health Counseling.  Rochelle works with adults 18 years of age and older, and families.

Rochelle primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT ) to assist individuals with reframing their negative thought patterns. This allows her to assist clients  develop healthy self esteem and coping strategies allowing more productive intra and interpersonal decision making.  Rochelle also uses person centered techniques to display my ability to relate to various populations and provide therapy in a non judgmental manner. Her style is  warm, approachable and honest. Rochelle believes therapy is extremely beneficial to assist individuals stabilize thoughts and emotions.

When not at work Rochelle enjoys working out and spending time with her family.

Education

Masters in Social and Community Service
Masters in Mental Health Counseling

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Grief/Bereavement
• Domestic violence
• Sexual assault victims/survivors
• Living with HIV/AIDS
• Sexual offending behavior
• Trauma recovery

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 year of age), adults, geriatrics, families, and couples. She is fluent in Spanish.

Stephanie Valeri, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Stephanie has spent over 12 years as a nurse emphasizing the importance of therapeutic communication, empathy, and patient education. She understands that she is not just treating symptoms, but a person with a past, present, and future. She feels in helping patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options; they can make the best treatment decisions for themselves. She 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. She then works to help her patients meet their own goals for their future through medication management and therapeutic techniques.

Stephanie is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (across the lifespan). She received her bachelor's in Psychology from Virginia Tech and then her Associate's Degree in Nursing. She has returned to her love of behavioral health and received a Master's of Nursing from Gonzaga University. Stephanie has spent her time as a Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner focusing on treatment of multiple disorders including (but not limited to): 

Education

Gonzaga University
Master's of 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

Dr. Frank Rose, PsyD

Philosophy of Care

Dr. Rose is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Virginia who provides individual therapy for adolescents and adults. He also provides psychological and psychoeducational assessment services. Dr. Rose received his Bachelors of Art in Psychology along with a minor in National Security and Military Leadership from Hampden-Sydney College. He received his Doctorate of Psychology, Masters of Arts in Psychology, and Masters of Arts in Criminal Justice at Widener University. Dr. Rose specializes in the treatment of trauma, substance abuse, and affective disorders, such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders. Dr. Rose has an interest in treating first responders, service members, and their families and offers flexible scheduling. Prior to joining Thriveworks, Dr. Rose served as the Director of Military Services for a local inpatient hospital and completed training at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center that was sponsored by the Center for Deployment Psychology.

Dr. Rose often utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients create positive and long lasting change. By focusing on changing what we do and how we think, clients are able to overcome obstacles and reach new goals. He is trained in many research-backed treatments including Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure for PTSD, Cognitive Therapy and Behavioral Activation for depression, CBT-I for insomnia, and Exposure and response prevention for OCD. When working with clients who are struggling with drug or alcohol abuse, Dr. Rose draws upon several modalities including motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy for relapse prevention.

When meeting each new client, Dr. Rose will complete a comprehensive intake and partner with each client to create measurable and achievable goals that are client centered and driven. He focuses on each person holistically, and uses a strength-based approach to help clients elicit their own personal strengths to create change. For those requesting assessment services, Dr. Rose helps clients and providers who need diagnostic clarity, are at an impasse in treatment, request aid in treatment planning or are applying for specialized services. Dr. Rose provides cognitive testing, ADHD testing, psychoeducational testing, and emotional testing for both adolescents and adults.

Outside of work Dr. Rose enjoys spending time with his family and friends, traveling, and watching local sports.

Education

Doctorate of Psychology
Masters of Arts in Psychology
Masters of Arts in Criminal Justice
Widener University

Specialties

• Psychological Assessment
• Trauma
• Substance Abuse/Addiction
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Bipolar Disorder

Jared Vega, PMHNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

Jared Vega is a dually certified Family (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Virginia who has over 10 years of healthcare experience.  He has worked as an EMT, Registered Nurse and Nurse Practitioner. and has worked in community and public health for most of his career. He completed his Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at the University at Buffalo in 2011, his Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Simmons University in 2017, and his post-masters certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at the University of New Hampshire in 2019.

Jared has a special interest in PTSD and trauma. Jared’s goal is to build a partnership with his patients that provide tools that include medication management and therapy to help the patients achieve their goals. He enjoys working with patients to develop goals and providing education about medications as well as tips to increase their everyday wellbeing. He looks forward to developing a plan that works for you!

Education

Specialties

• PTSD

Beata Sims, PMHNP, ARNP, MSN

Philosophy of Care

Beata Sims is a double Board-Certified Advance Nurse Practitioner. She launched her career in 2007 and received her Master’s Degree in Primary Care and a Post Master’s Degree in Psychiatric Mental Health.

Her approach is based on integrative psychiatry including

• Prescribing medications
• Motivational, person-centered therapy
• Complementary medicine

She enjoys working with a variety of age groups and provides 100% confidential and non-judgmental environment.

She is licensed to practice statewide and conduct visits by a video call from the safety and comfort of your home. Telepsychiatry makes it possible to get support from anywhere.

Beata has helped thousands of people to regain their health with appropriate medication and therapy.

She speaks English and Polish.

“Life is like a camera. Just focus on what’s important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things don’t work out, just take another shot.” Richard Branson

Education

Master’s Degree in Primary Care
Post Master’s Degree in Psychiatric Mental Health.

Specialties

• Life Transitions
• Anxiety and Stress
• Depression and Low Self-Esteem
• Bipolar and Personality Disorder
• Trauma and PTSD

Jenny Warne, LCSW

Philosophy of Care

Jenny Warne is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who completed her graduate studies at Virginia Commonwealth University. She has had extensive training and experience in individual, group, couples and family counseling. An area of particular passion includes work with young adults with a wide variety of presenting concerns including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, spiritual and religious questioning/seeking and LGBTQ identity issues. Additional areas of focus include self-injury, trauma and sexual assault recovery.

Jenny has many years of hospice experience. She welcomes the opportunity to work with those in need of grief and bereavement counseling. Jenny also has expertise working with the primary caregivers for persons with chronic and/or terminal illness. She is experienced in the provision of treatment services for older adults facing phase of life issues.

Jenny approaches clients with compassion and acceptance. She takes a collaborative approach to therapy, starting with where the client is and facilitating movement towards client-centered goals. Jenny primarily works from object relations theory, which examines how people experience themselves and others based on relational history. She also utilizes motivational interviewing and aspects of dialectical behavioral therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy as appropriate. Jenny recognizes that each person is unique in his/her experience of the world, and tailors her approach to each client.

Outside of counseling, Jenny enjoys spending time with her husband and their two kitties. She loves to read, entertain friends and family, attend live theatre, and is enjoying being a first-time gardener.

Education

Masters of Social Work
Virginia Commonwealth University

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Substance Abuse
• Spirituality/ Religion
• LGBTQIA
• Self-harm
• Trauma
• Sexual Assault

Q&A

"Why are you so passionate about working with women who have histories of trauma?" I am very passionate about empowering women in general. With a history of trauma, women in particular tend to internalize the message that the world is not safe for them. My work is to help them understand what happened was not their fault, to teach skills to reduce anxiety and panic, and to help them find a way to feel safe and live a fulfilling life.

"What types of trauma recovery do you specialize in treating?" I specialize in all types of trauma, be it childhood abuse/neglect, domestic violence (including emotional and verbal abuse), sexual assault, witnessing violence/death, victims of crime, etc.

"How do you approach working with teens who are self-harming?"Understand self-harm as a coping mechanism and a means of emotional expression. My goal is to understand how it works for them, and to work on the underlying issues while teaching a variety of alternative coping skills.

"Can you offer 3 tips for parents of teens who self injure?"

• Do not respond with negative judgment or shaming statements, as this will likely increase the self-harm.
• Tell your child you love them and that you are sorry they are hurting.
• Understand that this is different from a suicide attempt, and that it is most likely your child trying to cope with his or her feelings.

"How do you define codependency?"A codependent person is one who enables a partner who is dealing with addiction or other unhealthy behaviors, usually from a belief that they must show love by supporting their partner no matter what and that if they are successful in this their partner will change.

"What types of treatment goals do you think are important for someone to overcome codependency?"Appropriate treatment goals include learning to set healthy boundaries, being willing to follow through with consequences of boundary violation, working on a sense of self-worth separate from the partner, learning ways to cope with stress/anxiety. These are just examples; each person will have different reasons for being codependent.

"How do work with clients who are dealing with substance abuse issues and do not want to take a 12-Step approach?"The twelve steps have worked for a lot of people, but I recognize they do not work for everyone. I tend to utilize Motivational Interviewing to determine the client’s readiness to change and to help the client shift from one level to another. I understand that substance abuse is a coping mechanism, so I work with clients on the underlying issues and teaching alternative coping strategies.

"Why do you recommend counseling for those who are grieving?"There are many reasons people grieve, and death is just one of them. Sometimes it is difficult for someone to imagine life without whatever was lost (job, home, pet, loved one, good health, etc). Sometimes the loss means there is no longer an opportunity to repair the relationship. Whatever the circumstances, having someone listen without offering platitudes and helping you to find the “new normal” can make a huge difference.

Joy Daigle Book, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Joy Daigle Book is a licensed professional counselor, who provides individual, couples, and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. Joy treats children as young as 6 years of age. Joy has received a Bachelor of Arts in cross-cultural studies, a Master of Divinity with a specialization in cross-cultural studies, and an Educational Specialist degree in mental health counseling.

Joy provides an individualized approach to each person and family that works within each’s unique situation, utilizes strengths within that system, and raises awareness to specific hurdles that may be hindering wellness. 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 has experience working with children diagnosed with anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. 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.

Joy utilizes a variety of therapeutic approaches targeted to specific client needs. She strongly believes in celebrating strengths and past victories in establishing treatment plans for current challenges. As such, Joy incorporates many different techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy, narrative and solution-focused therapies, mindfulness and spiritual practices, play and art therapies, and career construction theory.

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.

Education

Master of Divinity, Specialty in Cross-Cultural Studies

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Autism Spectrum
• ADD/ADHD
• PTSD

Jenny Prewitt, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Jenny Prewitt is a licensed profession counselor (LPC) and Nationally Certified Counselor with over 10 years experience in the mental health field. Jenny holds membership in the American Counseling Association (ACA).  She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy with a concentration in psychology from Randolph College (formerly Randolph-Macon Woman's College), in Lynchburg, Va and Masters of Education in Community Counseling from the University of Tennessee Chattanooga. Jenny specialized in child and adolescent therapy during her graduate studies and residency.

Jenny’s professional experience includes the provision of clinical services in both residential (milieu) therapy and outpatient practice. She works with individuals, couples and families. Jenny also specializes in group therapy.
Jenny’s clinical specialties include Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, anger management and grief and loss. She has expertise in trauma recovery, specifically healing from childhood physical, emotional and sexual abuse. Jenny accepts patients 18 years of age and older. She is able to evaluate and treat Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder presenting in both children and adults. Jenny welcomes the opportunity to assist couples as they work through premarital issues, as well as, more chronic challenges associated with fidelity, sexuality and balancing relationship care with the life demands. She is passionate about working with adolescents and families around separation, divorce and coparenting.

Jenny understands that making the decision to contact a therapist can be difficult for some. Her goal is to make the process as welcoming as possible. She works in an extremely relaxed, informal manner that is collaborative in nature. Jenny uses humor regularly in her therapy sessions and takes every possible measure to ensure that her office is a safe place for clients to freely laugh, cry, or express anger as they need.

It is Jenny’s belief that many people not only experience stress and anxiety by unfortunate adversities, but also by how they construct their views of reality through the stories they tell themselves regarding the stressful incident. While systematically pulling from different counseling techniques from a wide range of theories, she tends to work most heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness techniques and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). These types of therapies help people overcome irrational, dysfunctional, and unhealthy thought process that tend to add to and prolong emotional strain, trauma, and tension due to a stressful life incident.

Jenny was born and raised in Virginia.  When not working Jenny enjoy being outside and staying active.  Snowboarding, riding bikes, paddle boarding, basketball and reading are enjoyed hobbies.

Education

Masters of Education in Community Counseling
University of Tennessee Chattanooga

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Bipolar Disorder
• Anger Management
• Grief

Afua Ayim, PMHNP

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.