Find a therapist in Newport News, VA — covered by insurance

Sirena is an EMDR trauma therapist in Henrico, VA, who strives to support client’s ability to not only survive, but thrive. Her specialty areas include complex trauma, intergenerational trauma, substance use disorders, eating disorders, adult attachment disorders, and neurodivergence.

She values the role that attachment needs play within the clinical relationship, and utilizes "here-and-now" approaches to help individuals gain insight into how these dynamics impact their life relationships. Sirena believes that mental health symptoms are just the tip of the iceberg, and while she supports individuals in acquiring new skills to face life's challenges, she is also eager to address the core concerns that stand in the way of a sustainable and enduring recovery.

​

My approach is direct, compassionate, culturally aware, and deeply grounded in trauma-informed care. I help clients understand not just what they are feeling, but why their mind and body respond the way they do. A lot of people come to therapy feeling exhausted from surviving, overthinking, masking, people pleasing, or functioning on autopilot. Together, we work on building emotional safety, nervous system regulation, healthier relationships, self-awareness, and practical tools that actually work in real life.

I specialize in trauma, anxiety, stress management, emotional regulation, relationship dynamics, self-esteem, life transitions, and helping high-capacity individuals who are successful externally but overwhelmed internally. My work integrates evidence-based practices, somatic awareness, attachment-focused interventions, and practical strategies that support both emotional wellness and everyday functioning.

Making the decision to start therapy is a profound investment of your time, energy, and vulnerability. If you are looking for a blank-slate clinician who simply nods and listens, we might not be the best fit. I offer a highly engaged, malleable, and unflinching partnership.

My approach is rooted in the belief that while the work of untangling our lives is deeply structural, the room itself doesn't always have to feel heavy. I bring a grounded warmth to my practice—which means knowing how to sit quietly in the gravity of a difficult truth, but also knowing when to break the tension, exhale, and find the light in the sheer complexity of being human. I won’t just sit in silence while you do all the heavy lifting; I am an active collaborator who adapts to exactly where you are.

My name is Julie Johns I went to school in Richmond VA for my undergraduate degree in social work and Northern Virginia for my masters in clinical social work. I have worked in a variety of settings such as hospitals, schools and private practice. I have a wide range of knowledge and skills with trauma therapy and eye movement therapy. as well as working with individuals who suffer with anxiety, depression and life transitions. I have worked within different populations identifying my clients individualized needs and creating treatment plans to help address and support their goals.

I have extensive experience working with complex trauma, attachment issues, family, and spiritually and religiously-based trauma.

Clients should know that I am committed to providing a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space where they can openly discuss their concerns. I understand that seeking mental health treatment can be difficult, and I strive to build trusting relationships through empathy, respect, and active listening.

As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in treating the whole person rather than just symptoms. I work collaboratively with clients to develop individualized treatment plans that align with their goals, values, and lifestyle. My approach combines evidence-based medication management with education, supportive therapy, and practical coping strategies to promote lasting wellness.

Clients can expect me to be compassionate, approachable, and dedicated to helping them navigate life's challenges while empowering them to take an active role in their mental health journey.