Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Chester, VA

Melinda is a trauma informed, Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia, with the Virginia Board of Counseling. She is also the owner of Triumphant Coaching & Counseling, LLC. Melinda graduated from Hampton University in 1991 with a B.A. in Sociology. She served in the Navy for 12 years as a Human Resource Officer, obtaining the rank of Lieutenant Commander. She acquired her master’s degree in human resource development in 2001, and she acquired her Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling Degree from Nyack College, Alliance Graduate School of Counseling in New York City in 2014.

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I have worked in primary care and medical environments for over 6 years as a therapist/clinical social worker.

My background is primarily working with patients faced with mood disorders such as anxiety, and depression. My expertise has expanded to treat PTSD and dissociative disorders as well as borderline personality disorder.

You're the one people call when things fall apart. You're good at it — steady, competent, the person who knows what to do. And somewhere along the way you stopped having anywhere to put your own stuff.

So you can run the meeting, hold the crisis, answer the phone at 2 a.m. — and still not be able to make yourself open the mail. Competence and collapse live together far more often than anyone admits out loud.

I work with adults carrying that particular load: substance use and recovery, emotions that arrive at full volume with no dimmer switch, thoughts of self-harm or not wanting to be here, and the specific erosion that comes from caring for other people for a living. Helpers, clinicians, parents, first responders — people whose exhaustion doesn't have an obvious place to go. I work with teenagers too, often the ones in families like these.

My style is direct, warm, and collaborative. I'm not going to nod quietly for fifty minutes. We'll find what's actually driving things, build skills you can use on a Tuesday afternoon when it counts, and I'll tell you honestly what I'm seeing. You set the pace. I'll bring the structure.

Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, or a challenging relationship that impacts your daily life, relationships, or ability to function? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or frustrated just getting through the day? Are you wondering if life could feel better, more fulfilling, or aligned with your values? If this resonates with you, thank you for seeking support. I take a collaborative, wellness-based approach to counseling, partnering with my clients to address barriers standing in the way of their relational, spiritual, academic, or professional goals. Together, we will build on your strengths to create lasting change.

Hello, my name is Benjamin Watkins. I look forward to working with you to make the positive changes you desire in your life. I have worked in the field since I was 19, starting as a Mentor. Helping others is my passion in life. I worked with children, adolescents, and parents in the foster care system, overcoming trauma and developing positive attachments. I have worked with a variety of issues.