Abel Juarez, Resident In Counseling

Philosophy of Care

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 thought process and has 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. 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 to 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.

Education

Regent University
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Specialties

Alicia Kalbfleisch, Resident in Counseling

Philosophy of Care

Alicia Kalbfleisch is a Licensed Professional Counselor Resident in the state of Virginia with two years of experience focusing on children and adolescents and individuals seeking help with depression, anxiety, academic issues, ADHD/ADD, LGBTQIA+, and relationship issues. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Centre College and received her Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from University of Lynchburg.

Alicia works to create a positive collaborative relationship with every individual and couple through strength based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, and emotionally focused approach. She recognizes the importance of flexibility, creativity, and understanding of all parts of life in the counseling process.

Alicia is excited to discover your strengths and goals through a caring and compassionate relationship, while encouraging and challenging alongside you.

Education

University of Lynchburg
Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• ADHD/ADD
• Stress management
• Self esteem
• Mindfulness/Meditation
• Anger management
• LGBTQIA+ Issues
• Relationship issues
• Self harm

Armirah Stephens, Resident in Counseling

Philosophy of Care

Inez Beverly Prosser, Dr. Mamie Phipps Clark, and Dr. Beverly Daniel Tatum. Names that sparked my interest in becoming a clinician. During my time at Spelman College, I studied the work of these women and how they made their mark in mental health for people of color and knew that I wanted to leave my own mark on mental health through my work as a clinician. I am a graduate of both Spelman College and Syracuse University. I hold a B.A. in Psychology and a M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy. I am a Resident in Marriage & Family Therapy. My targeted theories use when I provide care is narrative therapy and strategic therapy. I utilize these two forms of therapy the most because I believe that everyone has their own story to tell and mapping out that story through counseling can be helpful to individuals who need assistance on navigating to the next chapter in their life. The thing that I enjoy most from working with clients is assisting them to tap into the resilience that lies within them. While also observing their progress and tap into the strength that it takes for them to continue their personal narrative. I am most passionate about couples, military communities, and families. During my free time, I enjoy making candles and spending time with my family and friends.

Education

Syracuse University
Masters of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

Specialties

• Couples/Marriage Counseling
• Family Therapy
• Depression
• Grief/Loss
• Health/Medical Problems
• LGBTQIA
• Self-Injurious Behaviors/Self-harm

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

Courtney Graves, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

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

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

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

Education

Vanderbilt University School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing

Specialties

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

Crystal Miller-Williams, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

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

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

Education

University of Michigan-Flint
MSN

Specialties

• ADHD
• Depression
• Bipolar Disorder
• Medication Management

David Choi, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

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

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

Education

Drexel University
Master of Science in Nursing

Specialties

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

Denise Maxwell, Resident in Counseling

Philosophy of Care

Denise is a Resident in Counseling pursuing licensure as a Licensed Professional counselor. Denise has experience working with anxiety, depression, ADHD, disruptive behavior disorders, substance abuse, family relational conflicts, life adjustments, stress management, and other life challenges. Denise has worked extensively with children in multiple settings and enjoys helping parents and children develop healthy communication as they solve challenging behaviors.

Denise utilizes a person-centered approach to therapy focusing on developing a trusting, genuine relationship with every individual. She believes in the therapeutic power of as she uses child-centered play therapy techniques for young children and expressive arts, music, and games for all ages. Creativity and an individualized approach guide Denise in all sessions.

Education

Regent University
Master of Arts in School Counseling

Specialties

• Play Therapy
• Parenting Issues
• ADHD
• ODD
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Grief and Loss
• Trauma

Diane Justusson, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

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

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

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

Education

Oregon Health and Science University
Master of Science

Specialties

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

Elizabeth Custodero, LCSW

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker originally from Southern California and moved to Virginia Beach 13 years ago. I am a graduate of Strayer University with a degree in Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, as well as a Masters degree in Social work from the University of Southern California. I am also a Certified Case Manager, with four years of experience in Managed Care. I am a former military spouse with a lot of experience navigating the stressors and joys of military life in Hampton Roads. I started my career  8 years ago working at the community services board as a crisis counselor for adults diagnosed with severe mental illness and substance use disorders. I have a passion for treating anxiety disorders, anger management, depression,  and PTSD to help people live their best lives.

I have experience working with older adults, adults, and adolescents. I use a variety of treatment approaches to include: mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, motivational interviewing and solutions focused therapy. I specialize in crisis management and treating traumas and post traumatic stress disorder. My therapeutic technique can be considered “out of the box” at times, by using non traditional activities such as art, music, and writing to make the therapeutic process fun!

Elizabeth Onyejekwe, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

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

Education

Walden University
MSN, PMHNP

Specialties

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

Elizabeth Pak, PMHNP

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

Philosophy of Care

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

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

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

Education

University of Pennsylvania

Specialties

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

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

Philosophy of Care

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

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

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

Education

Frontier Nursing University
Master's in Nursing and Post Master's Psychiatry Specialization

Specialties

• Medication management
• Depression
• Anxiety
• PTSD
• Women’s mental health
• Special interest in Tourette’s Syndrome

Germaine Kelley-Pope, PMHNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

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

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

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

Education

Virginia Commonwealth University
Master's in Nursing

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Depression
• ADHD
• Sleep Disorder

Ibrahim Iftoni, PMHNP

Philosophy of care

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

Education

Walden University
Masters Degree

Specialties

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

Jennifer Macaraeg, Supervisee in Social Work

Philosophy of Care

I am a Supervisee in Social Work in the state of Virginia and I’m currently working towards my license to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).  I have over 10 years of experience working with several different populations in all various age groups. As a Hampton Roads native, I have experience working with military families and have an understanding of the impact that military life can have on an individual and their family. I have also worked in the family services field and have worked with clients who have suffered from different types of trauma.  In a more recent position, I worked with hospice patients and their families in processing their acceptance of end of life and helping them process and navigate through their grief and loss. Additionally, I am a Certified Case Manager (CCM) with 3 years of experience working in Managed Care. I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Old Dominion University and a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California. 

I utilize various treatment approaches to include, but are not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing and mindfulness techniques to assist clients in the therapeutic process. I believe flexibility in therapy is also important as the needs of the client can quickly change from one session to the next. I want my clients to feel comfortable in speaking with me and allowing me to be a part of their therapy process. I want to be able to establish a healthy and therapeutic relationship with my clients to assist and empower them in reaching their treatment goals by helping them identify their strengths and building on them.

Education

University of Southern California
Master of Social Work

Specialties

• Depression 
• Anxiety
• Grief & Loss

Jill Jones, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

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

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

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

Education

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

Specialties

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

Juan Turon, PhD. LMFT

It's great to be back home. When I first came from Argentina, at 16 years of age, Virginia Beach was my first destination. I graduated high school at Bishop Sullivan Catholic High. Immediately after that, I moved to Florida where I earned my Bachelor's degree in General Psychology and my Master's Degree and PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy. In 2005 I participated in the studies abroad international summer program at Cambridge University in England where I took courses on anthropology and the rise of civilizations. While studying family therapy I was blessed to work with and learn from Salvador Minuchin, one of the founding fathers of the craft. I was also a presenter at the 2015 International Family Therapy Conference. My work with one family was selected to be shown by Minuchin himself in Rome, Italy in 2016.

After many years of coming back to Virginia to visit, my wife and daughter decided to move here in July of 2018. I look forward to working with couples and families and to giving back to this community that gave me so much.

I specialize in the treatment of individuals, couples and families who are dealing with:

• Anxiety
• Marriage/Relationship issues
• Depression
• Bipolar Disorder
• Trauma
• Divorce
• Stress

Kamillah Gray, Resident in Counseling

Philosophy of Care

** Offering Online TeleHealth Services Only

Kamillah Gray is a Resident in Counseling in the state of Virginia who has experience working with adolescents and young adults with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and the LGBTIQA+ population. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Christopher Newport University and received her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs.

Kamillah works from a person centered foundation, utilizing cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, solution focused, and mindfulness techniques in therapy to meet the needs of the client. She uses a lot of collaborative work with individuals, and focuses on what you desire to get out of counseling. Kamillah believes that the relationship with the client is the most important part of the process.

Kamillah desires to build a genuine, empathetic, and warm connection with you in order to help you build on your current strengths and guide you towards your goals.

Education

University of Colorado Colorado Springs
M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Life transitions
• Social Justice
• LGBTIA+
• Racial minorities
• Self esteem

Karen Todaro, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Karen Todaro is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Virginia who has 41 years experience working with adults, couples, teens and children experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, unwanted behavior and relationship issues. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology from the University of South Florida and her Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University.

Karen utilizes cognitive behavioral, solution focused, relational, emotionally focused and life coaching approaches to therapy while maintaining the flexibility, awareness and creativity to best meet the unique needs of each client. Her focus is to be mindful of your prior life experiences, individual skill set and timeframe in setting and reaching your goals in order to live your best life.

Karen is non-judgmental, warm and caring and seeks to build a relationship with you based on mutual trust and respect through open communication. She will assist you with identifying your strengths and building on them so that you can reach your goals efficiently and move forward towards a more optimistic, productive and rewarding future.

Education

Nova Southeastern University
Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Self-esteem
• Depression
• Life Transitions
• Behavioral Issues
• Relationship Issues
• Anger Management
• Stress Management
• Pregnancy/Adoption

Karion Walker, Resident in Counseling

Philosophy of Care

Karion Walker is a Resident in Counseling in the state of Virginia, who has over 5 years of working in the mental health field, providing therapeutic care and psychoeducation to adults, couples, and adolescents seeking help with anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, coping skills, and anger management. Karion completed his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and his Master’s in Mental Health Counseling at Old Dominion University.

Karion utilizes multiple approaches to counseling, such as, strength based, cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, and person-centered. Karion does well with maintaining flexibility and awareness throughout each session to help him to meet the needs of each individual that he works with.

Karion seeks to be as empathic and compassionate as possible to provide services that will help empower, encourage, and promote positive change to clients, to help them to become the best versions of themselves.

Education

Old Dominion University
Master’s in Mental Health Counseling

Specialties

• Adolescent
• Anger Management
• Anxiety
• Behavioral Issues
• Career Counseling
• Coping Skills
• Depression
• Grief
• Life Coaching
• Men’s Issues
• Peer Relationships
• Stress Reduction and Management

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

Keiranni Taylor-Plummer, LPC

I am fun loving, laid back, and attentive Licensed professional counselor with 8 years of clinical experience working with clients from all walks of life. I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and young adults with a wide range of issues and concerns.  My job as a therapist is to help my clients begin their path to healing through acceptance, self awareness, and the utilization of positive coping skills. 

I understand that no one approach works for every person so I have been trained in a range of different modalities including Solution focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Multisystemic therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.

My educational background includes a MA in Community Counseling from Norfolk State University and a Bachelor’s degree in psychology from Elizabeth City State University. 

Kristine Mitchell, LPC, CPC

Philosophy of Care

Kristine Mitchell is an experienced therapist who has worked with a variety of client types. She is an excellent listener and can help others to see new viewpoints of their problems. She has worked with children from the age of 5 all the way up to the geriatric population, couples and family counseling individual psychotherapy, group therapy, trauma-focused therapy, as well as LGBTQ community issues. She excels in working with the middle-age population in self-discovery, career choices, relationship difficulties, and addiction issues.

She attended Capella University where she holds a Master’s degree in Clinical and Counseling psychology, a well as, a degree in forensic psychology.

Kristine utilizes a combination of therapy modalities such as person-centered, cbt, tfcbt, expressive art therapy, play therapy, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing, She occasionally uses homework assignments for her clients Always flexible to her clients’ needs, she utilizes the model that best fits the clients’ personality and is multiculturally aware, therefore making her a perfect choice as a therapist for all.

Education

Capella University
Masters of Art in Clinical and Counseling Psychology

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Substance abuse
• Marital issues
• LGBTQ issues
• Anger Management
• Career choice Issues
• Self discovery
• Women’s issues
• Domestic Violence

Latricia Williams, Resident in Counseling

Philosophy of Care

Latricia Williams is a Resident in Counseling in the state of Virginia with experience partnering with adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms related to domestic and sexual abuse/violence, life transitions and stressful-events. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Norfolk State University and received her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Walden University.

Latricia’s integrative approach, in helping meet the unique needs of the client, derive from cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy using solution-focused and mindfulness techniques. She is committed to help you identify barriers that are hindering change by encouraging positive transformation to achieve self-fulfillment.

Latricia’s passion is to help you maneuver through those tough times that can be debilitating and overwhelming by teaching solution-focused and mindfulness techniques to help you cope and function daily. Latricia builds on your strengths to combat any self-doubt or loss of confidence that may occur when life happens. She is dedicated to understanding your worldview and building a genuine and trusting relationship which will be conducive to your progress in therapy as well as encourage self-actualization.

Education

Walden University
Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Suicidal Ideations
• Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
• Domestic and Sexual Abuse/Violence
• Life Transitions

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

Mariellen Blanton, LCSW

Philosophy of Care

Mariellen Blanton is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor in the state of Virginia who has 30 years of experience working with adults seeking assistance with life stressors, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, loss, substance abuse and restoring balance in life. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from St. Leo University and earned her Master of Social Work degree from Norfolk State University.

Mariellen utilizes solution focused, cognitive behavior, supportive, mindfulness-based approaches to therapy while offering a safe, accepting forum in meeting each individual’s needs to empower all to flourish. Mariellen presents flexibility along with being attentive to what will work best for each individual’s distinctive needs and concerns.

Mariellen strives to create a calming and helpful relationship with you as a way to work together with you in building upon your existing coping strategies and achieving your goals while living a healthy, fulfilling lifestyle.

Education

Norfolk State University
Master of Social Work

Specialties

• Stress management
• Anxiety
• Depression
• PTSD
• Grief & Loss
• Substance abuse
• Relationships

Matthew Parvis, Ph.D., LMFT, LPC

Perhaps you have been struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, loss, or post-traumatic stress. Or maybe it’s been so long since your relationship was joyful that you doubt that it can be again. Dr. Matthew Parvis has over thirty years of experience in practice as both a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor helping thousands of individuals and couples create positive and lasting changes in their lives. 

Dr. Parvis uses many approaches in treating individuals and couples, however, the truth is that all treatment approaches are tools and a tool is only as useful as the skills of the craftsman. Dr. Parvis has the clinical expertise to apply any tool at his disposal that helps you move toward your goal. Therapy is a collaboration and a conversation between therapist and client on your journey of growth, healing, and meaningful change.

The hardest step in therapy is the first one: taking the risk of letting someone genuinely know you, so that you can better accept and understand yourself. Dr. Parvis considers caring, acceptance, and respect as the foundation for success in the therapeutic experience. Therapy is most valuable when you experience being seen, heard, and understood. From that trust comes the willingness to take one step at a time is creating the life and relationships you desire.

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

Nicolas Queen, LCSW

Nicolas Queen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia with 6 years experience working with clients seeking help addressing depression, anxiety, adjustment to life events, trauma and other mental health issues. He is open to working with adults and teens. He completed his Master of Social Work at West Virginia University.

Nicolas utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and solution focused approaches in his practice. He believes it is important to develop a partnership with clients to work toward utilizing their inherent strengths to help them meet the challenges they are facing and to achieve their goals.

Nicolas feels strongly about building a caring and non-judgemental environment that helps the client feel comfortable engaging in the therapeutic process and provide room to safely process. He is LGBTQIA+ friendly.

Nicolas’s specialities include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Self-Esteem
• Life transitions
• Trauma
• Foster System and Child Welfare
• Teen Issues
• Mood Disorders

Nikol Downing, LCSW

Philosophy of Care

Nikol Downing is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia who has years of experience providing therapy and support to adults seeking help with end of life/death issues, grief/loss, coping with a cancer diagnosis, depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, self-esteem issues, and stress management. Nikol completed her undergraduate education at Virginia Commonwealth University, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Bachelor of Social Work. She then attended Norfolk State University for graduate school, obtaining a Master of Social Work.

Nikol offers an eclectic approach to therapy. She believes every individual is unique; therefore, she remains flexible and innovative pulling from cognitive behavioral, strength based, solution focused, collaborative, and mindfulness- based approaches of therapy to co-create tailored treatment plans with each individual to meet their specific needs.

Nikol strives to create a strong, supportive, and caring relationship with everyone she is privileged of working with. It is her desire and goal to help you uncover your strengths and work towards being your ideal self. If you’re willing to do the work, Nikol is eager to be at your side helping and encouraging you along the way. The first step is simply reaching out.

Education

Norfolk State University
Master of Social Work

Specialties

• Oncology
• End of life/death
• Grief and Loss
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Stress Management
• Self Esteem
• Adjustment Issues

Olivia Glance, DNP, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care 

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

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

Education

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

Specialties

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

Robert O’Byrne, PMHNP

Philosophy of care 

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

He served in the Navy for 25 years practicing as a clinician as well as holding a variety of leadership roles that include Director of Mental Health and Medical Director.

Education

University of Virginia
Master's in Nursing

Specialties:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• PTSD

Samantha Lindtner, Resident in Counseling

Philosophy of Care

Hi, there! I am a Resident in Clinical Social Work in the state of Virginia. After growing up in the Chicago suburbs, I relocated to Hampton Roads and couldn’t be happier to live near the ocean. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Illinois State University and a Master of Social Work from University of Illinois. As a military spouse, I love helping individuals and families navigate the intricacies of military life. I have spent my post-graduate career working as a school social worker and I am passionate about issues regarding school and special education.

I utilize a holistic approach that focuses on building a relationship first. I work with clients of all ages and aim to collaborate with each individual to determine the best possible course of treatment. I will use techniques which draw from cognitive behavioral, solution focused and person-centered approaches. I am also a certified yoga teacher and enjoy including therapies that strengthen the mind/body connection, such as mindfulness, meditation and gentle movement.

I hope to create space for my clients to release emotions, uncover patterns and heal from traumas. Inner work can only be done by you, but there is absolutely no reason you should do it alone.

Education

University of Illinois
Master of Social Work

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Attention disorders
• Stress management
• Life transitions
• Relationship issues
• Military families
• School issues

Sharyn Ingrum, LCPC

Philosophy of Care

Sharyn Ingrum Is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. She has been licensed since 1995 in Illinois and now in Virginia.She obtained her Bachelors of Science from University of Illinois Chicago Circle.  She obtained her Master of Arts from Roosevelt University in Chicago. She completed all course work and internship for her Psy.D. at Illinois School of Professional Psychology.  She was unable to complete the program.  She also completed a two year Postdoctoral program in Marriage and Family therapy from the Family Institute of Chicago. She is a Certified Anger Management Specialist and a Certified Life Coach.

Sharyn has over 35 years of experience working with teens and adults. She loves working with people and is overjoyed when her clients achieve the goals they want to achieve.  Couples and families are always terrific to work with. 

Education

Roosevelt University in Chicago
Master of Arts

Specialties

• Anxiety and Mood Disorders
• Sexual Abuse
• Alcohol Abuse and Other Addictions
• LGBTQ relationships
• Anger Management
• Life Skills (Life Coaching)l
• Hypnotherapy
• ACOA issues
• And many others

Sung “Sunny” Cheol Kim, PMHNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

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

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

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

Education

Virginia Commonwealth University
Master of Science in Nursing

Specialties

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

Suvi Hyytiainen, A-GNP, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

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

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

Education

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

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

Pirkanmaa Polytechnic
Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Specialties

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

Taylor Coghill, LPC

I am a native to the Virginia Beach area and have lived here all of my life. I am the only child of parents who have spent most of their lives in this area as well. I attended Old Dominion University for both of my degrees, a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology in 2013 and a Master's of Science in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2015.

I have recently become a licensed professional counselor and have been working in the field of mental health for almost 7 years. I have worked in residential settings, acute inpatient settings, in-home settings, and therapeutic day treatment settings. I am excited to take this new step in my career in private practice. My approach to counseling involves a combination of Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques and Person-Centered Techniques typically but I am able to mold my style to what works best for each client. I am passionate about helping a client meet their goals whatever they may be.

I am currently working with individuals, adults and children, who are struggling with:

• ADHD
• Anxiety
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Career counseling
• Coping skills
• Depression
• Family conflict
• LGBTQ+ issues (transitioning gender, gender identity, questioning, sexuality, etc.)
• Life coaching
• Life transitions
• Peer relationships
• Relationship issues
• Self esteem
• Life coaching
• Life transitions
• Peer relationships
• Transitioning out of the military

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

Brenda Cahill, LCSW

I was raised in New England but am a southern girl in my heart. My mother was born in Hampton and I spent many summers enjoying the Virginia beaches and hospitality. I am the eldest of 6, we are scattered from Arizona to New Jersey but remain close. I attended undergraduate school at Elon College in North Carolina and obtained my Masters from Southern Connecticut State University. I am a widow and was married for over 30 years. I love to travel and have lived in England, and Morocco. I have traveled to more recently to China and Tibet.

I have over 20 years of experience as a clinical social worker/therapist. providing individual and family therapy. I have experience with diverse populations and have worked both as a private therapist and a therapist for patients with both psychiatric and substance abuse issues. I use an approach that includes working with a persons strengths and their capacity for change. I assist clients in developing treatment goals to improve their quality of life and developing a more positive self image with more effective ways of coping and decreasing stress.

I am currently working with individuals who are struggling with:

• Anxiety
• Coping skills
• Career counseling
• Depression
• Family conflict
• Grief
• Relationship issues
• Self esteem
• Women's issues
• Life coaching
• Peer relationships
• Life transitions
• Parenting issues

Donna Sotolongo, Psy.D

Donna Sotolongo is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 30 years' experience working with children, families, teens and adults in a variety of settings. A mother and grandmother, she has dedicated her life to helping her clients achieve their goals and deal with life's challenges.

After graduating from Princeton University, Donna pursued graduate study in School and Child Psychology and eventually went on to earn a Psy D from Rutgers University's Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology in Clinical Psychology.

Donna has worked in community mental health, residential treatment and school settings to provide clinical treatment as well as consult, train and design programs that promote healthy lifestyles and choices.

Donna has worked with children and families, on a number of issues including academic success, social adjustment, family relationships and workplace stress. A resident of both NY and NJ, she has been involved in helping schools and nonprofit organizations to provide preventive interventions within communities across the Tri State region as well as educate parents, counselors and teachers to better advocate for children. She believes wholeheartedly that mental health starts at the family and community level and we must all must be empowered to play a primary role in providing the support and nurt urance. needed in a changing and often unstable world. Most recently, Donna moved to VA Beach to continue her work and is looking forward to getting involved in this exciting, diverse community.

Donna strives to bring her passion and caring to all of the communities and populations she has served and is excited to bring that same energy and passion to her patients at Thriveworks.

Treatment modalities include: Family Therapy, Individual Therapy, Marital and Couples Counseling, Executive Coaching, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Treatment Approaches. Donna has significant experience working with adolescents, adults and families, and has more recently focused much of her practice on working with senior citizens who struggle with the challenges of maintaining health and well being following life altering changes in health, employment and family relationships.

Donna has also worked with individuals with life threatening illness and loss and believes that every person deserves the respect and dignity needed to navigate what can be a tough and challenging loss.

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

Don Costigan, LCSW

Don Costigan received his Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work at Norfolk State University in 1983. He received his LCSW in 1992 and specializes in treating substance use disorders and domestic violence. Don is a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers, and a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). In this role, he evaluates employees for substance abuse disorders when they work in an occupation coming under the Department of Transportation (DOT). Don opened Virginia SAP Referral Options in 2014.

He worked extensively in the addictions field including inpatient, residential treatment, and intensive outpatient programs. Additionally, he was co-owner and clinical director of New Bridges Outpatient Rehabilitation Centers in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Suffolk from 1993 to 2011. Don specializes in traditional twelve-step recovery using various treatment modalities to break denial and enable recovery. For several years while at New Bridges, Don coordinated and facilitated treatment in the men’s domestic violence program.

Don’s areas of expertise include therapeutic services for:

• Alcohol Abuse & Addictions
• Substance Abuse & Addictions
• Codependency
• Domestic violence.

I am very excited to join the team at Thriveworks Counseling Virginia Beach, VA. Please consider one of my favorite quotes:

"I’m not in this world to live up to your expectations and you’re not in this world to live up to mine - Bruce Lee"

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.