Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Norfolk, VA covered by Cigna

As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 32years of experience, I provide therapy that is empathetic, compassionate, and tailored to your unique needs. In a safe and supportive space, we’ll explore your concerns, identify recurring patterns, and work together to create meaningful, long-term changes. I also focus on practical strategies for short-term relief, helping you build satisfying relationships, achieve your goals, and strengthen your emotional regulation. My approach is integrative, collaborative, and centered on helping you feel understood, empowered, and supported throughout your journey.

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 am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work and experience across a variety of settings, including hospitals, assisted living and nursing facilities, public health, primary care offices, and private practice. This diverse background has allowed me to support individuals navigating a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief, and major life transitions.

I work with adults ages 18 and older, with a special focus on college-aged students, individuals experiencing relationship challenges, those recovering from narcissistic relationships, and the aging population. I help clients build skills in stress management, improve self-esteem, process grief, and navigate complex emotional experiences.

I was drawn to this field by a strong desire to support individuals during difficult times and to help them find clarity, resilience, and meaningful change. My goal is to walk alongside each client as they work toward healing and a more fulfilling life.

As a licensed clinical social worker, I understand the importance of providing exceptional care that is both compassionate and empathetic. I am currently licensed in North Carolina and Virginia. I hold a Master of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

During my academic years, I worked as an assistant to the court psychologist at the Department of Juvenile Justice in Charlotte, NC. I had the opportunity to assist with juvenile court reports and attend court hearings for youth offenders. I also worked alongside mental health professionals mentoring underserved youth in underrepresented areas of Mecklenburg County. Following my undergraduate degree, I gained extensive experience in various pediatric behavioral health settings, providing therapeutic interventions and community-based rehabilitative services. I have over 12 years experience providing mental health assistance and treatment to our military population and their family members, who have been impacted by domestic violence, child abuse, child neglect, anxiety, depression, PTSD, conflict, anger, relationship distress, and adjustment issues. In addition to therapy, I have experience working in federal behavior health policy and research.

I believe therapy should be a safe space where individuals can openly and honestly discuss most aspects of life to enhance their mental wellbeing. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, and I work closely with each individual and couple to identify their unique needs and establish the best therapeutic approach. Despite my training in various modalities focused on grief, couples, anger, and trauma, I prefer to use cognitive-behavioral therapy and solution-focused therapy techniques in my work with couples and individuals.