Vanessa Hentz

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Army veteran, I specialize in working with young African American veterans who are navigating depression, anxiety, military transition, identity shifts, and the challenges of civilian life. I understand that life after service is not always straightforward. Many people, including veterans, find themselves struggling with purpose, relationships, career decisions, and mental health concerns while trying to adjust to a new chapter.

As a female veteran, I bring both professional expertise and lived experience to my work. Those experiences help me create a space where clients feel understood, respected, and empowered.

My therapeutic approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), while also focusing on practical coping strategies, emotional insight, and helping clients build confidence in managing life’s challenges. I strive to create a space that feels genuine, approachable, and empowering—where clients can feel heard while also leaving sessions with tools and direction they can apply in daily life.

Clients can expect a welcoming, conversational, and judgment-free environment during their first session with me. My goal is to help you feel comfortable enough to show up as yourself while we begin exploring what brought you to therapy and what you hope to gain from the experience. I understand that starting therapy can feel intimidating, so I aim to create a space that feels supportive, collaborative, and approachable.

During our first session, we’ll discuss your current concerns, personal history, stressors, strengths, and any goals you may have for therapy. Together, we’ll begin identifying patterns, challenges, and practical areas where support may be helpful. I take a solution-oriented approach, so clients can expect not only to feel heard but also to begin developing realistic tools and strategies they can use outside of sessions.

My style incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), humor when appropriate, and a genuine, down-to-earth approach that helps clients feel connected rather than “talked at.” Whether you are navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship stress, burnout, or feeling stuck, my goal is to help you gain insight, build confidence, and develop healthier ways of coping as you move toward meaningful change.