ADHD therapists and psychiatrists in Newport News, VA

Starting therapy can feel vulnerable, especially if you’re used to being the one who holds things together for everyone else. I work with teens and adults who may look capable on the outside but feel overwhelmed, anxious, stuck, or disconnected on the inside. Many of my clients are insightful and thoughtful people who want more than quick coping strategies — they want to understand themselves more deeply and experience real, lasting change.

I’m a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor and the founder of Mente Serena Counseling. I hold a B.S. in Psychology and a M.A in Forensic and Legal Psychology and a M.A. in Counseling. I’ve worked with children, teens, and adults across different settings. As the daughter of Dominican immigrant parents, I understand how culture, family, and life experiences shape who we are. I now primarily support teens and adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, and everyday stress, and I’m passionate about creating a space where you feel seen and understood.

Alejandro is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who earned his Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. More importantly, he brings a warm, grounded, and genuinely human presence into the therapy room. Clients often describe him as approachable, easy to talk to, and deeply attentive.

Alejandro believes that meaningful change occurs in a space where you feel both safe and understood while also being gently challenged. He meets you where you are, without judgment, and helps you explore patterns, emotions, and experiences with curiosity and compassion.

Whether you are navigating stress, experiencing life transitions, or facing deeper emotional struggles, Alejandro is committed to walking alongside you at your pace. He aims to support you in building clarity, confidence, and a stronger connection with yourself.

Hello, and welcome. Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from your sense of purpose, fulfillment, or passion? Do you feel misunderstood by the people around you, or find yourself repeating unhealthy patterns that no longer serve you? Perhaps you want things to change but are unsure where to begin.

“It is okay not to be okay.” Life’s unexpected challenges can leave us feeling emotionally exhausted, uncertain, and alone. You do not have to navigate those experiences by yourself. I provide a private, safe, and supportive environment where you can openly explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences while building greater self-awareness, healing, and resilience.

My name is Brenda Hardin, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 20 years of professional experience. I am licensed in Indiana, New Jersey, and Virginia. I view therapy as a collaborative and empowering process that creates space for healing, personal growth, and meaningful change.

I specialize in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, and life transitions.

I'm an LCSW practicing in Indiana, Florida, Ohio, Colorado, Alabama, Virginia, and Illinois. I specialize prenatal, childhood, and adolescent trauma, OCD, eating disorders, and ARFID. I currently see clients from age 2y through adulthood. I'm available for telehealth services and offer virtual psychotherapy and play therapy sessions.