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Headway
Headshot of Sandra Bandas, LPC

Sandra Bandas

Therapist(she/her)
13 years of experience
44 patients on Headway
  • ADD/ADHD, Depression, Women's issues, PTSD
  • Individual therapy

Great to meet you!

I consider myself a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s in Rehabilitation Counseling from VCU. With 12 years of experience in individual and group counseling, I have developed a deep expertise in supporting individuals through various challenges. My diverse professional background also includes event security and juvenile corrections, giving me a unique perspective and skill set in managing complex situations and fostering positive change.

My approach to therapy

My approach to therapy is grounded in authenticity, openness, and humor. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings while knowing they are supported. I value genuineness in building a strong therapeutic relationship and strive to meet clients where they are, fostering a collaborative environment for growth.

I use a variety of evidence-based approaches tailored to each individual’s needs, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Reality-Based Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Relational Therapy. I also incorporate EMDR and Sand Tray techniques, which can help individuals process trauma and express themselves in creative ways. Through this integrative approach, I aim to empower clients to develop practical skills, gain insight, and work towards lasting, positive change in their lives.

What you can expect from me

Clients can expect to leave sessions with me feeling heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives. I focus on creating a warm, welcoming, and nonjudgmental environment where humor and authenticity are embraced, helping clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and emotions. This approach fosters trust and openness, setting the stage for growth.

Through our work together, clients typically develop practical coping skills, increased self-awareness, and a deeper understanding of their challenges. I often set goals that are solution-focused and realistic, aiming to help clients move toward tangible improvements in their daily lives. Whether it’s learning emotional regulation skills through DBT, processing trauma with EMDR, or gaining clarity through relational therapy, the outcome is always centered around healing, resilience, and personal empowerment. My goal is for clients to leave each session feeling more confident, supported, and equipped to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

About me

  • I identify as
    Caucasian, Cisgender Woman
  • My style is
    Empowering, Humorous, Open Minded

Qualification and insurance

  • Years of experience
    13 years of experience
  • Training
    MS (Master of Science) at Virginia Commonwealth University
  • License type
    LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) (Virginia)
  • Licensed in
  • Insurance accepted
    Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Curative, Optum Medicaid VA, Providence Health Plan, United Healthcare Medicare Advantage

Cost

Care details

  • Top specialties
    ADD/ADHD, Depression, Women's issues, PTSD
  • More specialties
    Anxiety, Stress management, Identity issues, Trauma, Transgender issues
  • Therapy methods
    Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Relational, Motivational Interviewing, Strength-Based, Trauma Focused CBT, Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)
  • Care types
    Individual therapy
  • Ages served
    Adults
  • Languages
    English
  • Location
    1520 West Main Street ste 201A
    Richmond, VA 23220