LGBT therapists in Abingdon, VA

Smart Duru is psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years of combined healthcare experience. He attended University of Derby, England for a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing and a master’s in psychiatric mental health nursing with Distinction. Smart Duru obtained a Master of Science Degree with specialization in Psychiatry mental health Nurse Practitioner. He has extensive experience in Mental health, Primary care, Sub/Post-Acute Care, Long Term Care, Correctional Medicine, and Family Medicine.

Are you BIPOC or LGBTQIA+ struggling with self-compassion and self-care? Are you struggling with the anxiety of navigating a society that feels like it's not made to support you? Whether it's systemic issues or unpredictable life changes, sometimes life can feel overwhelming and beyond our control. I provide a space for you to be your authentic self and receive unconditional positive regard through these challenges. Come as you are.

Challenges shouldn’t just be endured—they should be the catalyst for your breakthrough. My goal is to help you transform life's toughest hurdles into a foundation for lasting resilience and self-discovery, giving you the tools to reclaim your strength and lead a more intentional life.

I believe in the inherent wisdom and strength within all human beings and I utilize a number of approaches to reveal that wisdom and strength within my clients.

As a mom of three (specifically as a twin mom), I know how difficult and challenging life can be. This is why I strive to be meet clients wherever they are in their journey. Often times, we don't need or even want someone to tell us all the things to do, but instead want the support of someone walking with us through life's challenges.

I am a proud double duke of James Madison University. I received my BA in Psychology with a Minor in Family Studies. Then stayed to receive my M.A. and Ed.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. From there my counseling journey led me to complete my internship in a private practice clinic in Knoxville, TN as my husband finished his own education. Next, I worked with Youth Villages as an Intensive In Home Counselor. And most recently, worked as a Mental Health Outpatient Counselor with New River Valley Community Services (NRVCS) where I completed my VA residency and became an LPC.

In all of the clinical settings I have practiced, I have worked with a wide range of clients. The main population that I have served is children and adolescents. I am working to expand my knowledge and clinical expertise to also include more adults. My clinical trainings have included Play Therapy, CBT, TF-CBT, and EMDR.

I am a LCSW with experience working with individuals, couples and families, in a variety of clinical settings including the film & TV industry, Hollywood community MH, LA LBGTQ Center, and Braille Institute. I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, trauma, depression, anger, family and work relational issues, disabilities, as well as, grief and loss. I work with all ages and many cultures.

MSW at CSULA. I spent many years living in France; teaching at universities.

As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) from Walden University, I am deeply passionate about delivering patient-centered care and committed to advocating for individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures. With over eight years of experience working with patients, families, and communities affected by mental illness, I have developed a profound understanding of the importance of compassionate and individualized care.

My professional journey began as a registered nurse, where I came to realize that mental illness is no respecter of person, age, color, or social status. This experience reinforced my belief that every individual facing mental health challenges deserves a patient-centered, personalized, and holistic approach to their care.

As a PMHNP, my goal is to serve as a source of strength and support through active listening, empathy, and compassion. I strive to provide an evidence-based approach tailored to each patient’s specific needs, ensuring that every individual feels heard, valued, and empowered on their path to wellness.