Grief counselors and therapists in Alexandria, VA

Hi! I'm Yama, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of clinical and administrative experience spanning adult-gerontology, post-acute nursing, and advanced psychiatric care. My background is deeply interdisciplinary, which means I bring a broad, well-rounded perspective to every person I work with.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Virginia, and I’m passionate about supporting adults on their journey toward healing and well-being. With a master’s degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and over seven years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of helping individuals navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, and other life stressors.

I have been leveling up my approach to psychotherapy for the span of my career, most recently completing training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). This is now the primary approach of my practice. My career began nearly 15 years ago with victim advocacy, working with survivors of sexual violence, first as a volunteer then graduating to counselor as my education progressed. I also gained a great deal of experience in crisis response and substance use treatment from working in residential/inpatient facilities with adolescents and adults. A great deal of my clinical experience has been in practice of Dialectical Behavior and Cognitive Behavior Therapies, which continue to be solid supports for my work in EMDR with clients.

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC), who works with children, adolescents, and adults to navigate life’s challenges in a supportive and meaningful way. I strive to create a warm, welcoming, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel comfortable being yourself and exploring what’s on your mind.

I have experience helping clients manage anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, ADHD, relationship concerns, and major life transitions. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply looking for personal growth, I work collaboratively with you to better understand your experiences and build tools for lasting change.

As a therapist, I believe in your story and your individual experience. A space that is safe, comfortable, & free of judgement is essential for your success. It is important that you are in control of your own therapeutic experience, and I believe my role as a therapist is to serve as a guide & emotional support for you through your own journey. To provide a more authentic process and promote psycho-education, I aim to actively engage with you through discussions and person-centered support. “Pain is real, but so is hope”, and that is the main goal of my therapeutic approach: instill hope.

Welcome, I'm glad you're here. I wear many different hats and enjoy working with adolescents and adults to address low self esteem, communication, anxious thoughts, scattered mind, or boundary setting. I also enjoy working with individuals who may be struggling with financial stress, career fulfillment and burnout, as I believe this is inextricable linked to mental health and wellbeing. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to support you.

I have a passion for working with adolescents and their families, as well as both younger and older adults individually. I enjoy working with clientele from diverse backgrounds and I strive to create a culturally sensitive, inclusive and affirming space.

Life can pull us in a hundred different directions, and sometimes it takes slowing down, getting real, and having honest conversations to find our way forward. My approach is straightforward and commpassionate - no judgment, no fluff. I meet you where you are, walk beside you through the challenges, and help you rediscover your strength, clarity, and purpose.