Find a therapist in Abingdon, VA — covered by insurance

I’ve been working in the mental health field for nearly a decade and bring a deep commitment to helping individuals heal, grow, and thrive. I hold a Master’s Degree in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Washington, DC and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Marshall University in Huntington, WV. These academic foundations, combined with years of hands-on experience, have shaped my compassionate, informed, and client-centered approach to therapy.

Most recently I was serving as a Licensed Clinical Therapist where I provided individual and group therapy in an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for adults facing complex mental health and substance use challenges. I am currently working at a small group practice treating adults with stress, anxiety, depression, ptsd, and more. I hold sessions on the weekend and in the morning one a week.

At the heart of my practice is a belief in the power of authentic connection. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where clients feel empowered to explore difficult emotions, build insight, and take meaningful steps toward lasting change.

I have completed a successful U. S. Army career as a Senior Helicopter pilot & paratrooper; Commanded Aviation & Field Artillery companies; and I am experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for past 25 years; graduate of Richmond VA Seminary. Born & raised in Topeka, Kansas as 3rd oldest in family of 12 children. Athletic background: high school wrestler & track star; college football player; & Six-time VA State Racquetball Champion. Dedicated to helping others be all they can be !

I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, PTSD, Panic disorder and mood disorders. I also offer ADHD testing for children and adults online and in-person. I offer both medication management and therapy.

Making the decision to start therapy is a profound investment of your time, energy, and vulnerability. If you are looking for a blank-slate clinician who simply nods and listens, we might not be the best fit. I offer a highly engaged, malleable, and unflinching partnership.

My approach is rooted in the belief that while the work of untangling our lives is deeply structural, the room itself doesn't always have to feel heavy. I bring a grounded warmth to my practice—which means knowing how to sit quietly in the gravity of a difficult truth, but also knowing when to break the tension, exhale, and find the light in the sheer complexity of being human. I won’t just sit in silence while you do all the heavy lifting; I am an active collaborator who adapts to exactly where you are.

As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 32years of experience, I provide therapy that is empathetic, compassionate, and tailored to your unique needs. In a safe and supportive space, we’ll explore your concerns, identify recurring patterns, and work together to create meaningful, long-term changes. I also focus on practical strategies for short-term relief, helping you build satisfying relationships, achieve your goals, and strengthen your emotional regulation. My approach is integrative, collaborative, and centered on helping you feel understood, empowered, and supported throughout your journey.

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.

EVENING TELEHEALTH HOURS/FREE CONSULTATION!! As a therapist, connecting with clients and walking with them through their journey of triumphs and challenges, I have found that the connection between counselor and client is paramount. I strive to meet my clients where they are, focusing on their strengths and empowering them to make the changes they see fit rather than prescribing issue or diagnosis. I value treating each individual client with the respect they deserve. Placing emphasis on developing a relationship that is based on warmth, trust, respect, and genuine care. The ease of conversation, is client driven and casual.

Many people seek out therapy because, despite their best efforts to change, they might end up in the same cycles. These cycles of behavior are driven by our life experiences and long-standing behavior patterns. Together, we will explore these patterns so that we can begin to create understanding of our motivations and create space for positive change.

For 16 years I have worked with clients impacted by anxiety, depression, and grief. My experience has provided me a unique perspective in working with individuals and couples, parents and families. I understand the need to get to know a counselor before scheduling a session. To help, I offer a free 15 min phone consultation. Look forward to hearing from you.

As a Gen-X therapist, I am often described as highly relatable. Not too old, not too young...just right. I enjoy working with persons of all ages, all stages, all walks of life. I am a mother, sister, daughter, aunt, friend. I am a lifelong learner. I am a lover of art, nature, animals, travel, cooking, laughter and optimism. I have a deep love and respect for my profession and feel honored and so very lucky to be able to do this precious work!