Alexandria, VA Therapy, Psychiatry, and Counseling

Shirley Hudson is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) who is passionate about providing evidence-based and personalized care to adult clients. She began her health career treating patients in various settings including spinal cord injury, intensive care, hematology, oncology, and medical-surgical units. As a Christian, Shirley understands there is still a stigma attached to mental illness in many churches. She also has a mission to reduce the stigma of psychiatric disorders by educating clients, families, and the community about mental health disorders.

After years as a registered nurse, she completed her Master of Science in Nursing at Old Dominion University. Through her years at the hospital bedside and clinic, Shirley saw a need for more psychiatric care providers. To help increase access to mental health services, she earned her Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification.

Shirley believes that the best patient outcomes are built on the foundation of a strong and authentic patient/provider partnership. She values the client as an integral part of the treatment team and works diligently to provide education about all aspects of the mutually agreed-upon treatment plan.

Josephine Dakin- Davis is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHMP) in the of state Virginia. With over 15 years of clinical nursing experience, Josephine came to the realization that a sound mind is the precursor to the sound body and has an ardent passion for Mental Health. 

Josephine graduated from George Mason University in 2010 with a BSN, after ten years of nursing in diverse areas including mental health, and received her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Her vast experience has helped her to understand the philosophy of mental health, and her nursing education has exposed her to a variety of health care settings. Goal driven and detailed oriented, patient satisfaction at the top of Josephine's professional agenda. She aims to create a cordial, warm and collaborative relationship with peers and patients.

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.

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

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

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

Wooni Kim is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience. She specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, among others. Wooni has worked in inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, hospice, and home health. She is devoted to evidence-based, holistic care through a compassionate, patient-centered approach.

Wooni has a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. She provides both medication management and psychotherapy, working collaboratively with clients to create personalized treatment plans that address their psychological and emotional needs.

Wooni takes pride in building strong, trusting relationships with her clients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment and recovery process. By listening with empathy and offering personalized care, she helps individuals regain control over their lives and achieve emotional balance. Schedule an appointment today!

I am a resident in counseling with 3 years of experience supporting teens, young adults, and adults through challenges related to identity, life transitions, self-worth, addiction recovery, and emotional wellness. I’m passionate about helping clients uncover their inner guidance, develop a strong sense of self, and navigate the complexities of everyday life with greater clarity, resilience, and purpose.

I hold a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of the Cumberlands. My work is grounded in depth psychology and incorporates psychodynamic, mindfulness-based, strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, and somatic approaches that help clients understand patterns, connect to their bodies, and develop healthier ways of coping.

I believe healing happens in community, and I’m committed to creating a safe, compassionate space where you feel seen and supported. Whether you’re managing pain, rebuilding after setbacks, or pursuing growth, I’ll walk with you as you build new skills and move toward the life you want.

Claudette Gadson is currently a Supervisee in Social Work (SISW) Resident of the State of Virginia with years of experience. She treats clients of all ages and specializes in depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and suicidal/homicidal ideations.

Claudette completed her Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) at Fordham University. The interventions that she utilizes include some elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing.

Claudette is here to help you and to help start your successful path towards change and a bright future. Schedule a session with her today.

 I believe that every individual can get through difficulties that arise in life and sometimes we need some help. I am passionate about providing a safe space for you to talk about your story.

Whether you are grieving the loss of a relationship, struggling to communicate to the important people in your life more effectively or you are unsure about how to build a stronger relationship with your child. With compassion and respect we will unearth what is getting in the way of what you want.

I use a personable and direct approach to provide solution focused counseling.

Jessica White is a Resident in Counseling with 1 year of experience in the mental health field. She specializes in providing trauma therapy, anger management, career counseling, and grief support, as well as addressing mood disorders, anxiety, depression, stress management, and client advocacy. Jessica takes a holistic approach to wellness through a trauma-informed lens, understanding that each person’s journey is unique. with over 10 years of experience in education, Jessica has developed a strong understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that both adolescents and adults encounter.

Jessica has a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for any client, Jessica primarily utilizes trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and psychoeducation to guide clients toward healing and resilience.

Jessica understands that life can bring overwhelming challenges. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, grief, or past trauma, she creates a compassionate, non-judgmental space to work toward healing and growth. If you're looking for a therapist who listens and understands, don’t hesitate to reach out to her—she’s ready to walk alongside you.

Gwendolyn Fisher is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has over 3 years of experience helping children and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, bipolar, oppositional defiance, trauma, PTSD, family relationships, and crisis stabilization.  

Gwendolyn earned her Bachelor's degree from Virginia Wesleyan University and her Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Gwendolyn utilizes collaborative, positive regard, solutions-focused, cognitive behavioral (CBT), person-centered, mindfulness-based, and emotionally-focused approaches to meet clients where they are, and to promote a more meaningful life.

Gwendolyn seeks to empower clients by helping them meet the goals they desire in life. With her assistance, you'll begin recognizing that you are valuable while learning to live your best life—one day at a time. 

Patricia "Tricia" McCarty is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys helping people work through life transitions, addiction, grief/loss, chronic illness/pain, anxiety, depression, stress, and low self-esteem. 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. 

Tricia completed her Master of Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University. She 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.

“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.

I am a resident in counseling with 3 years of experience supporting teens, young adults, and adults through challenges related to identity, life transitions, self-worth, addiction recovery, and emotional wellness. I’m passionate about helping clients uncover their inner guidance, develop a strong sense of self, and navigate the complexities of everyday life with greater clarity, resilience, and purpose.

I hold a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of the Cumberlands. My work is grounded in depth psychology and incorporates psychodynamic, mindfulness-based, strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, and somatic approaches that help clients understand patterns, connect to their bodies, and develop healthier ways of coping.

I believe healing happens in community, and I’m committed to creating a safe, compassionate space where you feel seen and supported. Whether you’re managing pain, rebuilding after setbacks, or pursuing growth, I’ll walk with you as you build new skills and move toward the life you want.

Abel Juarez is a Resident in Counseling who specializes in depression, anger, anxiety, relationships, and addiction. In life, there will be obstacles and complications that can interrupt and affect how individuals cope with negative as well as positive outcomes. These outcomes can influence a person's thought process and have the ability to make them feel overwhelmed, powerless, and anxious. In counseling, these challenges can be handled in a manner in which individuals, couples, and families can address and begin to understand how such difficulties can result in the present situations.

"I am passionate about aiding those in difficult situations to focus on their strengths and build on them," says Abel. "In this, the counseling process becomes an understanding of several issues instead of focusing on the negative aspects that people find themselves in. Therefore, progress can move forward and the client and I can begin to address the issues at heart.

Furthermore, counseling sessions are a nonjudgmental arena in which the client is not thought of in a negative light. Being that, everyone experiences life and reacts to circumstances both negatively and positively. The extent of this reaction is where counseling starts to help those in need of a better understanding of how they conduct themselves."

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 4 years of experience supporting individuals through life transitions, anxiety, grief, mood disorders, trauma, and substance use. I specialize in working with adults who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected—from themselves, their relationships, or their sense of purpose. Many of my clients come to therapy seeking clarity, healing, and a more grounded sense of self. Together, we work to understand patterns that no longer serve them, build resilience, and cultivate meaningful change.

I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and I ground my approach in evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and dialectical behavioral therapy. I support clients in slowing down, tuning into their emotions and patterns, and making intentional choices.

I know that reaching out for support can feel vulnerable, and I want you to know you are not alone in whatever you are facing. If you’re ready to explore your story and take steps toward healing or growth, I’d be honored to walk alongside you. When you are ready, I invite you to take that next step—we will move forward at your pace together.

Dee Jacobi-Edwards is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia and a Licensed Independent Social Worker-Clinical Practice (LISW-CP) in South Carolina who has helped individuals, couples, and families for over 20 years. Dee works with clients 18 to 99 years old. Her clients have presented with issues including anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and relationship difficulties. Dee has also helped clients who have experienced fear or isolation caused by COVID-19. She understands that grief, loss, and bereavement do not only occur when someone dies, but also when a job is lost, or poor health occurs. Having been a hospice social worker, Dee has also counseled individuals and family members after a loved one has been given a terminal diagnosis.

Dee completed her Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) at the University of Texas at Arlington and her Master of Education (MEd) in Rehabilitation Counseling at Springfield College. Utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques, clients develop an understanding of the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and are encouraged to cultivate flexibility in the process, leading to change in automatic problem-solving responses. Other techniques used include mindfulness, cognitive restructuring, and relaxation techniques. Dee is also an ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider.

Using a conversational style, Dee collaborates with her clients, whether an individual, a couple, or family members, to identify areas of concern. Together, she and her client analyze what the perceived difficulties are and identify achievable goals. In a supportive and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship, Dee encourages open communication to resolve conflicts from misunderstandings.

Shirley Hudson is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) who is passionate about providing evidence-based and personalized care to adult clients. She began her health career treating patients in various settings including spinal cord injury, intensive care, hematology, oncology, and medical-surgical units. As a Christian, Shirley understands there is still a stigma attached to mental illness in many churches. She also has a mission to reduce the stigma of psychiatric disorders by educating clients, families, and the community about mental health disorders.

After years as a registered nurse, she completed her Master of Science in Nursing at Old Dominion University. Through her years at the hospital bedside and clinic, Shirley saw a need for more psychiatric care providers. To help increase access to mental health services, she earned her Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification.

Shirley believes that the best patient outcomes are built on the foundation of a strong and authentic patient/provider partnership. She values the client as an integral part of the treatment team and works diligently to provide education about all aspects of the mutually agreed-upon treatment plan.

Josephine Dakin- Davis is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHMP) in the of state Virginia. With over 15 years of clinical nursing experience, Josephine came to the realization that a sound mind is the precursor to the sound body and has an ardent passion for Mental Health. 

Josephine graduated from George Mason University in 2010 with a BSN, after ten years of nursing in diverse areas including mental health, and received her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Her vast experience has helped her to understand the philosophy of mental health, and her nursing education has exposed her to a variety of health care settings. Goal driven and detailed oriented, patient satisfaction at the top of Josephine's professional agenda. She aims to create a cordial, warm and collaborative relationship with peers and patients.

Kristi Gannon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently offers tele-health sessions in Virginia specializing in offering treatment to adults and seniors who are faced with the negative effects of anxiety, depression, anger, relationship issues, ADHD, poor coping skills, gender identity issues, stress, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, and more. 

Kristi understands that no single approach to therapy works for every individual, and therefore integrates a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral (CBT), person-centered therapies, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques to help clients achieve their desired goals.

Kristi is passionate about the work she does with her clients and uses a collaborative approach to empower clients in taking control of their own recovery. She offers an empathic, non-judgmental, and safe atmosphere that promotes growth and healing.

Jessica Lee is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 3 years of experience working with children, adults, and families who are seeking help in coping with depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, and life transitions.

Jessica earned her Master's degree in Social Work from George Mason University. Her approach is collaborative and interactive, with a trauma-informed and person-centered approach. She utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and applies a multi-modality approach, drawing upon psychodynamic, reality therapy, and solution-focused therapy techniques. 

Opening yourself up to the unknown can feel very vulnerable and scary—but Jessica knows that therapy can be a great place to find more adaptive ways of living and enjoying life. She is committed to creating a therapeutic environment for all clients and customizes her sessions to meet the needs of every unique individual.