

LGBTQIA+ individuals in Charlottesville deserve affirming mental health support that honors who you are. Headway offers flexible sessions with empowering providers experienced in supporting gender and sexual identity. Connect with a provider who listens without judgment.
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.
Welcome—I'm so glad you're here. Whether you’re navigating a life transition, processing deep emotional wounds, or simply seeking a safe space to be heard, I’m here to support you. I’m a bilingual, neurodivergent, culturally-affirming National Certified Mental Health Counselor, licensed in Virginia and Florida, with 25+ years of experience guiding individuals through healing and growth. My approach is compassionate, personalized, and rooted in evidence-based practices.
I believe therapy is a powerful way to reconnect with your inner strength. If you're considering taking that step, I'd be honored to connect.
I currently work with individuals aged 18 and older.
I am excited to provide compassionate & competent care for transgender, non-binary, and gender expansive adults, and other LGBTQIA+ identities. In addition, I enthusiastically affirm asexuality and aromaticism, intersex folks, and all who experience marginalization, erasure, and/or invisibility within the broader LGBTQIA+ community. Anyone “questioning” is welcome!
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and I have been treating patients across the lifespan for over 15 years. Once my caseload became full in 2022, I founded a small practice (Tandem Telehealth) where I now oversee a handful of talented psychiatric nurse practitioners and talk therapists. The team approach allows us to provide faster access to care for new patients and a higher level of support than you would likely receive from individuals working independently.
I am an LPC in Virginia and LMHC-S in Florida my background in practice consists of treating adolescents, families, children in at risk populations and treating adults with depression and anxiety. I take a holistic approach to counseling and meet the client where they are at. I include CBT and solution-focused techniques in order to assist clients dealing with a variety of issues. I also have a background in TF-CBT informed therapy and utilize this as needed.
Hello! My name is Chelsea Vicario. I received a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Masters degree in Counseling from Radford University. The meaning of healing and growth looks different for everyone. I am here to help guide you to being your best self and to help you figure out what your healing and growth journey will look like. I have a passion for helping people reach their full potential.
I have experience working with people with dual diagnosis. I am a CSAC. I also have experience in private practice working with individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar, self-esteem issues and relationships concerns. I am a strong ally for the LGBTQ+ community and truly enjoy working with this population. I truly believe that healthy boundaries, healthy coping skills and a positive mindset can change a person’s life for the better.
I use a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy and a solution focused approach to help you reach your specific goals and start your path to healing. I know it can be difficult to start therapy, but I will provide an environment to help you feel comfortable as you start the therapeutic process.


Headway makes it easier to connect with affirming therapists who understand your identity — from finding the right therapist, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.
Finding LGBTQIA therapists in Charlottesville starts with looking for identity-affirming care. A therapist’s experience with LGBTQIA+ clients can matter when you want support related to gender identity, sexual orientation, family or relationship stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma. As you compare options, look for therapists who list affirmative therapy, WPATH training, gender-diverse experience, or LGBTQIA+-affirming care in their profiles. These details can help you find someone whose training and focus match what you want to address.
In a smaller city like Charlottesville, the number of local LGBTQIA+-affirming therapists may be more limited than in larger metro areas. Virtual appointments can expand your options across Virginia while still giving you access to care from home. You may also want to compare appointment availability, scheduling flexibility, therapist background, and whether a free phone consultation is offered. Reading bios before you book can show how each therapist describes their approach, who they support, and what a first session may include.
Therapy in Charlottesville can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to lower your session costs and understand what you may pay before you start. Headway helps you search for therapists who match your preferences, take your insurance, and are accepting new patients. You can review profiles, see estimated costs after entering your insurance details, and book directly when you’re ready.
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