Jennifer Polanco

I'm a licensed professional counselor in Virginia with seven years of experience helping clients work through stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, and family conflict. My practice also covers a wide range of areas — from caregiver stress and life transitions to self-esteem, identity, and workplace challenges — because I know most people don't come in with just one issue on their mind.

I believe you are the expert of your own story. You already have strengths that can help you move through what's challenging you; sometimes it just takes the right support to bring them forward. Reaching out and taking that first step toward a more fulfilling, happier life takes real courage, and I don't take that lightly.

My approach is collaborative and empowering, not one-size-fits-all. I draw on client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness — blending these based on what fits you and what you're working through. Rather than telling you what to do, I work alongside you to uncover what's already working in your life, build on your existing strengths, and create change that actually holds up outside of our sessions. All of this happens through telehealth, so you can access support from a space where you feel most comfortable.

Our first session is about getting to know each other and making sure this feels like the right fit. We'll talk through what's bringing you to therapy right now, what you've already tried, and what you're hoping will be different. There's no pressure to have it all figured out — my goal is to listen, understand your story, and start building a shared picture of what support should look like for you going forward. You'll leave with a clearer sense of how we'll work together moving forward.