Heather is an AMAZING therapist!!! She is an empathetic listener and very compassionate when she shares counsel or action steps with me which makes feel understood and safe in sharing very difficult emotions and feelings.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Heather
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Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum, Grief, Divorce, Anger Management, Stress / Mental Stress / Work Stress, Depression, Anxiety, Relationships, Life Transition, Women’s Issues
Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Heather
Heather Duncan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia and an experienced counselor with 6 years of outpatient counseling and assessment experience and 14 years of experience working with severely mentally ill individuals within a variety of community mental health agencies. Heather graduated from Liberty University with a master’s degree focused on Professional Counseling. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and couples by approaching individuals uniquely while holding space and joining with individuals throughout their distinct healing journey as they work to live a more fulfilling life. Heather specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, major life transitions, men’s and women’s issues, life transitions and adjustments, peri and post-natal challenges, chronic pain, and chronic illnesses.
Heather Duncan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia and a member of the Virginia Counseling Association. Heather has demonstrated work experience within the mental health industry. Heather is skilled in crisis intervention, premarital and couples counseling, grief/loss, group therapy, behavioral health, training, and psychotherapy. She is passionate about partnering with individuals and investing time in the development of a strong therapeutic rapport. Heather’s passion, supportive style, and unique clinical approach to individuals fuel the treatment and quality of care you will receive. Heather utilizes multiple therapeutic person-centered treatment approaches including mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, prepare and enrich, and family systems therapy.
One of the most challenging and important aspects of wanting to start the therapeutic process is finding a counselor that you feel comfortable with! You have already made THE most important decision regarding your well-being and that is simply to just begin. When you develop a relationship with a caring, attuned therapist, you will find new ways to solve problems, know and accept yourself, heal old wounds, and change the way you live your life. We all deserve a little help and support sometimes, and that’s what led you here! If you’re feeling like something is missing or needs to give, please reach out to Heather and schedule an appointment today. She would be honored to be of help.
"As a married mother of two who works daily to manage chronic medical challenges, I can empathize with the unique level of support that life demands."
What clients say
These testimonials are from real clients who completed a satisfaction survey after their sessions and agreed to share their feedback. Results may vary.
For the most part, it's been a positive experience so far. There was some confusion early on with my insurance, but that's been sorted out. As far as my provider, I feel very comfo....
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Heather
Heather has been so understanding and sincere since I've been meeting with her. She listens to me and gives me helpful advice. Would definitely recommend her.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Heather
Heather is an AMAZING therapist!!! She is an empathetic listener and very compassionate when she shares counsel or action steps with me which makes feel understood and safe in shar....
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Heather
I appreciate how easy it is to talk to my therapist and how kind she is!!
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Heather
Get to know Heather
Why did you decide to become a counselor?
I decided to become a counselor when I discovered a space in the world that meets where I enjoy being with others, meets with my personality, and talents. Being a support to others while they uncover greater sense of freedom and hope in their everyday lives is a place of great honor for me.
What types of clients do you work with best?
I work best with older adolescents, young adults and those in later stages of life. I work well with individuals of all walks of life. I enjoy working collaboratively with men, women, LGBTQIA+, and couples who are struggling in a variety of areas of their life.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
The individuals I am most excited to work with include men, women, LGBTQIA+, and couples regarding a variety of circumstances or areas of distress.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
I love this question! I wish clients knew that they are not alone in their pain and suffering if they are willing to open themselves to those who are more than happy to sit with them in their pain, anger, and grief. I also wish clients could see themselves through the eyes of those who know them the best and not through the eyes of their anxiety, depression or relational pain.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
I chose to work for Thriveworks to continue to grow as a provider and have the ability to focus on what's important - client care.
What inspires you?
Many things inspire me, to mention a few such as sunsets and sunrises, the lake, nature, my children and family members, a good book and story, and my clients!
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
Clients can expect to come away from our first session together thinking, "that was not as bad as I expected!" You will have greater insight regarding the therapeutic process, its limitations, benefits, and risks. Additionally, they will gain a greater understanding of my personality, gentleness, and passion for the healing process while I gain greater information about you and what you hope to gain from counseling.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
I want to lay the groundwork for earning your trust and building a solid therapeutic partnership during our first session and a general direction for our next therapy session. Additionally, I want to work to answer any questions, concerns, and/or anything else you may bring into session with you.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first counseling session?
I will work to earn your trust without pressure, and we will collaborate together throughout the counseling process. Most importantly, I so look forward to meeting you and working together!
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I enjoy many things such as movies, art, music, reading, a good cup of coffee, animals, water and snow sports! I also enjoy a time with my family and friends doing pretty much anything such as sitting in front of a fire, watching a movie, playing a card/board game, or just simply talking about everything or nothing at all.
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
One thing that defines me is my sense of hope.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 6 years
- Graduating institute
- Liberty University
- Graduating degree
- Professional Counseling
Additional details
Practice information
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