Our Providers

Andrew Smith, LCSW

Philosophy of Care

Andy Smith is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia who has over 10 years of experience working to empower children, adolescents, adults, and families to better face and cope with depression, anxiety, family conflict, and trauma.  He completed both his Bachelor of Science in Creative Advertising with a minor in Psychology and his Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA.  

Andy uses a combination of cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, strengths-based, family systems, and solution focused therapy interventions to provide a relaxed, creative, collaborative, and individualized approach to treatment.  

Andy seeks to build a meaningful and empathic relationship with you in order to facilitate recognizable growth and change.  Andy wants you to be able to achieve your goals and live a thriving life.

Education

Virginia Commonwealth University
Master of Social Work

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Self-Injury/Suicidal Thoughts
• Self-esteem
• Family therapy
• Parenting Issues
• Trauma

Ashley Groeper, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Ashley Groeper is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with an MA in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Originally from North Carolina, she moved to Virginia in 2007 to pursue her passion of helping people. 

Ashley is experienced with couples, families, and individuals experiencing adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, addiction, and complex disorders such as Schizophrenia, Bipolar and Major Depression. She is trained in Cognitive Behavioral therapy and utilizes a Person-Centered Approach.

Ashley’s warmth, acceptance and empathy will enable you to find hope and healing.

Education

Liberty University
Master's in Professional Counseling

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Life stages and changes
• Adjustment
• Grief & Loss
• Addiction
• Relationships
• Assertiveness

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 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

Casey White, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Casey White, Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia, received his Master’s Degree in Counselor Education from the University of Virginia.  He completed his undergraduate studies in Psychology while attending the College of William and Mary.  Casey has over 4 years of experience working with adolescents and young adults in outpatient, community, and educational settings.

Casey strongly believes in the power of individuals to grow and heal, and to overcome hardships and obstacles in their life in order to unlock their true potential.  Casey works to build a strong therapeutic alliance and sense of rapport with openness and humor, and utilizes a mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral approach to support individuals and families in making the necessary changes in their lives to create a life worth living.  

While not working, Casey enjoys exploring nature via hiking, camping, and kayaking, and plays online video games with his close friends.

Education

University of Virginia
Master's in Counselor Education

Specialties

• ADHD
• Anger Management
• Anxiety
• Communication
• Conflict Resolution
• Depression and Mood Disorders
• LGBTQ+ Issues
• Life Transitions
• Personality disorders
• Self-esteem
• Social Skills
• Trauma

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

Dr. Marcela Mejia, PsyD

** Services are offered in English and Spanish
** Individual and Couples Therapy 

Doctor Marcela Mejia is a licensed psychologist, in the state of Florida and Virginia, specializing in helping adolescents and adults understand and manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Florida International University and her Doctorate of Psychology, with Utmost Distinction, from Albizu University.

Dr. Mejia utilizes cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, strength-based, mindfulness-based, and humanistic approaches to therapy. She focuses on each individual holistically, studying the client’s point of view at all stages of the treatment through assessment of their current emotional and mental state. She is committed to providing a nurturing environment and helping clients develop coping skills so they can unlock their creativity and thrive, becoming the best version of themselves.

There are times in life when we face personal, professional, or relationship challenges that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about ourselves or our choices. Dr. Mejia offers her knowledge, experience, and expertise to help you find peace of mind, unload your suffering and pain, renew your sense of hope and freedom, and make healthy choices to move toward a full, authentic, and harmonious life.

Dr. Mejia’s specialties:

• Depression
• Anxiety / Stress
• Trauma and PTSD
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Eating Disorders
• Anger management & Communication
• Relationship issues
• Grief / Loss
• Drug and Alcohol Addiction / Abuse
• Coping with Life transitions (i.e., divorce, becoming a care giver, job loss, re-establishment sense of self / identity)

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

Jaclyn Boykin, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Jaclyn Boykin is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia who has 4 years’ experience working with adults, children, families, couples, and the military who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, parenting, and serious mental illness. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Troy University and received her Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from Walden University. Jaclyn is currently working towards her PhD in Counseling Education and Supervision at Walden University. 

Jaclyn utilizes individualized, strength based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, solution focused and emotionally focused approaches to therapy. Jaclyn works to maintain the creativity, flexibility and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual, couple, and family.

Jaclyn strives to develop and maintain a warm and caring relationship with you in order to support in building on your strengths and provides encouragement and direction towards meeting your goals and identifying balance to address life’s challenges.

Education

Walden University
Master's in Clinical Psychology

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Stress management
• Self esteem
• Life transitions
• Anger management
• Parenting 
• Relationship issues
• Grief & Loss
• ADHD
• Serious Mental Illness

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

Kathleen Roberts, LCSW

Philosophy of Care

Kathleen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia who has over six years of experience working with individuals who have experienced domestic and sexual violence, childhood abuse, trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, grief, and Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs). Kathleen obtained her bachelor's degree in social work from Longwood University, and her Masters of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2014. 

Kathleen is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which is a therapeutic modality for working through trauma. She also incorporates mindfulness, relational, and strengths-based approaches in her work with each individual. She recognizes each individual brings his or her own unique experiences and perspectives to therapy, and tailors each session to the individual. Kathleen also enjoys a collaborative relationship with her clients, so each client feels empowered to reach his or her goals. 

If you are looking to take the next step in your journey toward healing, Kathleen will be honored to walk alongside you. She recognizes the courage needed to start therapy, and will provide a space that feels safe and warm to work through life’s stressors. 

Education

Virginia Commonwealth University
Master's of Social Work

Specialties

• Panic Counseling
• Phobia Counseling
• Depression
• Eating Disorders
• Mood Disorders
• PTSD
• EDMR
• CBT
• Academic and Work Issues

Kelly Hopkins, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Kelly Hopkins is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia, and she holds certifications in the areas of substance use disorders and trauma.  Kelly has 13 years of experience in a variety of settings in the behavioral health field, working with culturally diverse populations with mood disorders, personality disorders, and addictions.  Kelly completed her Bachelor of Arts from Longwood University and she received her Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Kelly utilizes a combination of therapeutic approaches tailored to each individual’s needs.  These include person-centered, trauma-informed, cognitive behavioral, dialectal behavioral, motivational interviewing, and interpersonal.

Kelly looks forward to developing a collaborative relationship with you to build upon your strengths and work towards improving your quality of life.

Education

Virginia Commonwealth University
Master's in Rehabilitation Counseling

Specialties

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Addictions
• Anxiety and Panic Disorders
• Depression
• Bipolar Disorder
• Personality Disorders
• Gender Specific Issues

Landon Sheriff, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Landon Sheriff is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia with 10 years of experience with adults and children who are seeking assistance managing: depression, anxiety, life changes, family issues, autism, urges to self-harm, suicidality, trauma, and the transition and ongoing difficulty with adoption and foster care.  Landon received his Master of Arts from Liberty University in Professional Counseling and in Marriage and Family Therapy.

Landon specializes in a cognitive-behavioral approach to therapy that focuses on how you view and interpret information, what it tells you, and how your interpretation affects how you feel, think, and what you do.  The focus of this form of therapy is to learn how to filter and process information in a way that breeds confidence, awareness, and clearer thinking.

Landon seeks to build a genuine and warm relationship with you in order to empower you to reach your goals and to live the best life you can.  Landon’s philosophy on the counseling relationship focuses on collaboration as you have the power to make great strides towards your goals and dreams.

Education

Liberty University
Master's in Professional Counseling

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Self-harm/Suicidal thoughts
• Family issues
• Adoption/Foster Care
• Self-Esteem
• Trauma
• Autism/Intellectual Disabilities

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

Mary Ellen Patton, LCSW

Philosophy of Care

Mary Ellen Patton is an LCSW, licensed in both Virginia and Kentucky, who started her career in Nursing in 1979.

Since starting in this field, her clinical focus has been: Depression, Anxiety, Addictions, PTSD, Grief and Loss and Life Stressors. She has been in the field for 30 years and is a compassionate person with a desire to help people.

Her counseling approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Stress Management. She is a collaborative and goal focused clinician who understands that you are the expert in your own life and will work with you to tailor treatment to meet your unique and specific needs

Education

Norfolk State University
Master of Social Work

Specialties

• Relationships
• Anxiety
• Stress
• Depression
• Mood Disorders
• Bipolar Disorder
• PTSD
• EDMR

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

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

Susan Luck, LCSW

Philosophy of Care

Susan Luck is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Virginia, who earned her Ph.D  in Counseling Studies and a D.Min in Biblical Counseling. She has worked in the helping field  for over 20 years in various settings including schools, county mental health, substance recovery  programs, and in private practice. Susan has extensive experience working with individuals  addressing concerns including depression, worry, anxiety and stress management, adjustment  difficulties, ADHD, trauma and abuse responses, substance use, parenting difficulties, and grief  and loss.  

Helping individuals is offered through use of person-centered, solution focused approaches as  well as elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Schema Therapy, and Mindfulness. These  approaches guide exploration and processing of concerns based from a thinking, feeling, and  doing framework. Through this processing, clients often find relief and are able to more fully  comprehend their own sense of self in the situation.  

Susan’s style is expressed through genuine respect, compassion, non-judgmental acceptance,  acknowledgement regarding events that individuals have experienced, with recognition that day to-day life can be burdensome. Susan offers hopefulness working to help develop strengths and  resilience that will empower clients to move forward in a positive way. 

Education

State University of New York
LCSW
Capella University
Ph.D in Counseling Studies

Specialties

• Depression 
• Anxiety/Worry/Stress-Management 
• Adjustment Difficulties/Change in Life Events 
• Trauma and Abuse Response 
• Anger Management 
• ADHD 
• Grief and Loss
• Parenting Difficulties

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

Tricia McCarty, LCSW

Philosophy of Care

“In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety” (Abraham Maslow). Sometimes what feels safe, comfortable, and familiar, is actually unhealthy; change can be hard and the unknown scary. Do you feel stuck, repeating toxic patterns or negative thinking? Have life events or stress become overwhelming or seem unmanageable? Maybe you just need a supportive space to talk about what you’re going through and how you are feeling.

Tricia uses a humanistic approach and a variety of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, strength based, narrative, acceptance and commitment, expressive art as therapy, and positive psychotherapy. She enjoys helping people work through life transitions, addiction, grief/loss, chronic illness/pain, anxiety, depression, stress, and low self-esteem.

Tricia will actively listen, help you gain perspective, explore with you what is keeping you from becoming the best version of yourself, and make a plan that will empower you to reach your goals.

Education 

Virginia Commonwealth University
Master's of Social Work

Specialties

• Life Transitions
• Self-esteem
• Coping Skills

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

Yasim Clark, LPC, CSOTP

Philosophy of Care

I am a firm believer in transformation and patience. These are two key components to life and also effective counseling. We are all constantly inundated with educational, financial, spiritual, and career conflicts which lead to traumatic events. The struggle to maintain balance in our lives can be difficult, especially since covid-19 has altered life as we have known it. Stress and uncertainty can cause depression, anxiety, PTSD, and high-risk behaviors (i.e. sexual promiscuity, defiance, anger outbursts) in an attempt to cope alone. Therapy is a unique and transforming process, which can be rewarding in many different ways. It is Important for a client and therapist to embark on the journey together with respect and trust in one another. If this sounds like you please feel free to contact me.

Education

Walden University
Master of Science

Specialties

• Relationships
• Depression
• PTSD
• CBT
• Mindfulness/Meditation
• Sexual Offenders

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

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

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

Kate Hanselman, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Have you been having a hard time lately? You don’t have to struggle alone. The first step toward feeling better can be challenging, so let’s take it together. It’s okay to need a little extra help!

Kate Hanselman specializes in working with healthcare workers, educators, and those in the helping professions, though she serves all ages and demographics. Whether you’re looking for support with an ongoing issue, or this is your first time seeking help, she will meet you where you are, and together you will decide on a plan that fits your needs.

Kate prioritizes a collaborative approach and offers honed clinical expertise, a dynamic set of tools including medication and therapy, and a firm belief that you are the expert on your own life. In addition to medication management, she provides thorough, holistic care by using CBT, trauma-informed, solution-focused, and mindful approaches to better understand and target the root causes of your distress.

Kate is a board-certified PMHNP and received a Master’s in Nursing (PMHNP) from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s in Science from King’s College London. With over a decade of experience in mental health as a nurse, a first responder in New York, and a health professions educator, Kate has a unique familiarity with the challenges particular to these roles. Especially now, with the pandemic increasing stressors and diminishing opportunities for coping, everyone needs and deserves a little extra help. That includes you. Come on by and let’s talk.

Education

King’s College London
Master’s in Science

Specialties

• Anxiety
• ADHD
• PTSD and trauma
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Depression
• Stress management
• Life transitions
• Grief & Loss
• OCD
• Insomnia/sleep issues
• Coping skills
• Women’s Issues
• Relationship Issues
• Stress
• Medication Management
• School Issues
• Transgender
• Parenting
• LGBTQ+

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.