Chesapeake, VA Therapy, Psychiatry, and Counseling

Hey, my name is Dr. Kayla Thorne! I have received my Doctorate in Human Services, Master of Social Work, and Bachelor of Arts in sociology. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2025 and have provided therapy to children, adolescents, and teenagers since 2023 as a Supervisee in Social Work. I have also provided therapy to college-aged students and adults since 2025. I enjoy the wide variety of clients that I work with who are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, and life changes. I work with the clients to set goals for therapy and help them achieve those goals throughout the therapy timeframe.

I use a cognitive-behavioral therapy approach and have specialized training in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, and stress. I focus on active listening, cognitive restructuring, and assigning homework (as needed) between sessions to support continued growth.

Life can be challenging to navigate at times, especially when you feel anxious, stressed, or alone. I know it can be hard to find someone to trust to talk about your experiences when it seems impossible to deal with the life stressors. I'll be there to meet you where you are during those tough times, so feel free to book a session with me.

Matthew is a Licensed Resident in Counseling (RIC) with years of experience. He has experience working in various settings, from out-patient college clinics to in-patient hospitals and outpatient community centers. He works with children, adolescents, and adults to address their unique needs and live their lives on their terms.

Matthew completed his Master's degree at Old Dominion University in 2022, and Bachelor's degrees in Criminal Justice and Psychology at the University of South Carolina Upstate in 2015 and 2016. He utilizes a person-centered and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach with his clients.

Life is a series of challenges and stresses. Matthew is confident that he can assist you in developing new ways of looking at and coping with the unique challenges that life gives you. If you are ready to get to work on changing you life, schedule an appointment today.

Jerusha McClendon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has worked with many people experiencing mental health and addiction personally or in their family. Jerusha has 8 years of experience in the mental health field. She completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Ohio State University.

Jerusha believes there is a need to identify and understand where the seeds of doubt and fear come from, as well as how to connect with the seeds of hope and purpose in the present and the future. Her job is to facilitate the conversation and allow clients to gain insight into their condition and develop an action plan to change their lives.

Jerusha’s superpowers include listening empathetically, relating easily to others, and critical thinking. She believes that all people have purpose in life, and she wants to explore that purpose with clients. Additionally, she strives to create a safe place in therapy so vulnerability can be examined and gains made. Therapy is a change process. Join Jerusha in this change process so that you can be a changemaker in your life and spread that change to others in your inner circle.

Shauna Polen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 1 year of clinical experience. She is committed to delivering evidence-based, personalized care. Shauna has experience supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. Her approach is rooted in clinical expertise and genuine compassion for each person’s mental health journey.

Shauna earned her Master’s in Nursing from Norfolk State University with a focus on psychiatric mental health. She brings a background in clinical and theoretical care and tailors treatment using medication management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Her approach is client-centered and collaborative.

Shauna is passionate about education and advocacy in mental health care. She stays up to date on current research to ensure high-quality treatment. Known for her empathy and dedication, Shauna builds strong, trusting relationships with her clients and provides care that supports healing and long-term wellness.

I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 44 years of experience in behavioral mental health. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with individuals living with schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and borderline personality disorder. I take pride in helping clients navigate challenges with time management, organization, and self-esteem so they can make meaningful, lasting life changes and achieve better balance in their daily lives.

I earned my Master’s in Nursing from Walden University, and I am board-certified. My approach to care is holistic, recognizing how nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes impact emotional well-being. I incorporate talk therapy, mindfulness, and mind-body techniques to support clients’ mental, physical, and spiritual health.

I see seeking mental health care as a courageous act of self-investment. My role is to provide a safe, supportive space where clients can explore challenges, gain clarity, and grow in confidence. Together, we focus on building tools for healing, developing healthier habits, and creating a more balanced life—one step at a time.

Shauna Polen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 1 year of clinical experience. She is committed to delivering evidence-based, personalized care. Shauna has experience supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. Her approach is rooted in clinical expertise and genuine compassion for each person’s mental health journey.

Shauna earned her Master’s in Nursing from Norfolk State University with a focus on psychiatric mental health. She brings a background in clinical and theoretical care and tailors treatment using medication management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Her approach is client-centered and collaborative.

Shauna is passionate about education and advocacy in mental health care. She stays up to date on current research to ensure high-quality treatment. Known for her empathy and dedication, Shauna builds strong, trusting relationships with her clients and provides care that supports healing and long-term wellness.

I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 44 years of experience in behavioral mental health. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with individuals living with schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and borderline personality disorder. I take pride in helping clients navigate challenges with time management, organization, and self-esteem so they can make meaningful, lasting life changes and achieve better balance in their daily lives.

I earned my Master’s in Nursing from Walden University, and I am board-certified. My approach to care is holistic, recognizing how nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes impact emotional well-being. I incorporate talk therapy, mindfulness, and mind-body techniques to support clients’ mental, physical, and spiritual health.

I see seeking mental health care as a courageous act of self-investment. My role is to provide a safe, supportive space where clients can explore challenges, gain clarity, and grow in confidence. Together, we focus on building tools for healing, developing healthier habits, and creating a more balanced life—one step at a time.

Maria Amadi is a dual-certified Medical and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in Virginia with over 30 years of nursing education and experience in various healthcare settings, including 6 years as an NP and the last 2 years as a PMHNP. She cares for individuals ages 14+ with various medical, addiction, behavioral, and psychiatric mental health conditions including anxiety, anger, depression, ADHD, alcohol use, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder.

Maria received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from The University of Massachusetts Global. In addition to medication management when needed, she utilizes a holistic approach that considers the client as a whole person and focuses on wellness that supports physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being and improves functionality.

Maria wants you to know that she is here for you and ready and waiting for you to make your first appointment! When you are ready to start, she is ready to walk alongside you.

As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with eight years of nursing experience spanning multiple specialties, I bring a broad clinical perspective to mental health care across the lifespan. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma-related conditions, mood disorders, burnout, and difficult life transitions. My approach is compassionate, holistic, and rooted in evidence-based practice—combining psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy to treat the whole person, not just symptoms. I partner with each client to build personalized treatment plans centered on resilience.

I earned my Master of Science in nursing from Walden University. My approach is collaborative and individualized, combining comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and thoughtful medication management with psychoeducation, mindfulness-based strategies, and strength-based coping skills.

If you've been carrying more than you let others see, you don't have to do it alone. I offer a warm, respectful, judgment-free space where we can identify patterns, build practical tools, and restore clarity and confidence. When you're ready, I'm here to help you take that next step toward meaningful, sustainable change.

I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering empathetic, research-driven care to individuals of all ages. I have worked with clients facing a range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, PTSD, mood disorders, and other psychiatric conditions. Many individuals seek insight, emotional stability, and actionable strategies to navigate stressors, strengthen relationships, and regain a sense of control. I am particularly committed to empowering clients seeking deeper self-understanding, resilience, and working toward meaningful, lasting change.

My personality style is warm, empathetic, and approachable, creating a safe space where clients feel comfortable being open and honest. I help them feel heard, understood, and empowered. I value authenticity and maintain a nonjudgmental attitude, meeting each person where they are and helping clients build practical skills for lasting growth and healing.

Taking the first step toward mental wellness can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to do it alone. I am here to support you with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to your growth and healing. I encourage you to take the next step and begin your journey toward meaningful change.

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.

I am Dr. B, Dr. Bertresh, Dr. London or Dr. Nunez, and I have dual licenses as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Virginia. I have been working with children, families, couples, and individuals for over 30 years. In that time, I have found from working with couples that I help serve as their translator to increase communication, understanding, and connection. With individuals, I've helped them thrive by overcoming and significantly decreasing anxiety, anger, depression, lack of motivation, social anxiety, and difficulties communicating.

As your clinician, we will personalize your treatment and utilize your strengths, resources, and passions to help overcome struggles. This means that I will help you manage unwanted thoughts, implement coping skills, learn social skills, reframe triggers, become more assertive, and increase mindfulness resulting in less unwanted symptoms.

Saying life can be heavy, draining, discouraging, and challenging is an understatement, especially when trauma and life circumstances are present. Let's start identifying ways that you can get out of the deep hole that you may be in. I can help you get out of the rut with supportive, unbiased observations to navigate through life's many changes.

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."