LGBT therapists in Harrisonburg, VA

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 17 years of experience in counseling. I have worked with people struggling with diverse challenges including anxiety, depression, substance use, and life transitions.

Hi there! I'm Dr Esmie, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and PhD, Research Psychologist with more than three decades of professional and lived experience. I've lived much of my life in England and California and now currently reside in the DMV state of Virginia. I bring a broad multicultural perspective to my work.serving individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural, social, and spiritual backgrounds.

My clinical practice integrates evidence-based approaches, including trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and strengths-based interventions. I have worked extensively with clients navigating trauma, life transitions, relational conflict, stress, and emotional challenges, helping them move toward healing and personal growth.

I believe meaningful change occurs when people feel genuinely seen, heard, and respected. I strive to create a safe, supportive therapeutic environment where clients can explore their experiences without judgment. Through collaboration, practical tools, and compassionate guidance, I help clients develop insight, strengthen resilience, and build healthier patterns of thinking, feeling, and behavior.

Above all, I value human dignity and authentic connection. I believe credentials may open doors, but character, empathy, and genuine care sustain lasting transformation.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 have been a counselor for more than 30 years. I remain passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and believe that genuine caring is an essential element to an effective counseling relationship. Over the years I have worked with clients with significant trauma and loss. I consider it a privilege to stand with another individual as he or she resolves great pain. I specialize in treating clients with trauma, relationship issues, and borderline personality disorder.