Strength-Based Therapists in Charlottesville, VA

Photo of Maren Ward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlottesville, VA
Maren Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901
I use a strength-based approach with an emphasis on psychodynamic attachment based, AEDP, Internal Family Systems and Mindfullness interventions.
Therapy is a great gift to yourself. The connection provided in a safe, therapeutic relationship is healing. I encourage self exploration to find and heal wounds that are blocking one's own self-love and connection to the authentic self that feels true and right. I provide a gentle, accepting presence to join you on your journey toward increased life satisfaction. I enjoy working with adults struggling with life transitions, anxiety, shame, depression, anger and grief or just feeling stuck.
I use a strength-based approach with an emphasis on psychodynamic attachment based, AEDP, Internal Family Systems and Mindfullness interventions.
Therapy is a great gift to yourself. The connection provided in a safe, therapeutic relationship is healing. I encourage self exploration to find and heal wounds that are blocking one's own self-love and connection to the authentic self that feels true and right. I provide a gentle, accepting presence to join you on your journey toward increased life satisfaction. I enjoy working with adults struggling with life transitions, anxiety, shame, depression, anger and grief or just feeling stuck.
(434) 448-8236 View (434) 448-8236
Photo of Jennifer Smith Sims, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlottesville, VA
Jennifer Smith Sims
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22902  (Online Only)
I work with clients from a strength-based, positive and affirming approach, helping you to feel inspired to succeed in whatever you want to focus on!.
Hello there! My name is Jennifer Smith Sims. I am licensed Mental Health Counselor (LPC) and the Owner/Founder of LifeSpark Counseling and Coaching.I have over sixteen years of experience in the field and I have a solid foundation in utilizing techniques from Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Schema-Focused Cognitive Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution focused therapy. I also have a strong Christian faith and am very passionate about providing faith based counseling to those individuals that want to incorporate their faith into our sessions.
I work with clients from a strength-based, positive and affirming approach, helping you to feel inspired to succeed in whatever you want to focus on!.
Hello there! My name is Jennifer Smith Sims. I am licensed Mental Health Counselor (LPC) and the Owner/Founder of LifeSpark Counseling and Coaching.I have over sixteen years of experience in the field and I have a solid foundation in utilizing techniques from Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Schema-Focused Cognitive Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution focused therapy. I also have a strong Christian faith and am very passionate about providing faith based counseling to those individuals that want to incorporate their faith into our sessions.
(540) 712-6276 View (540) 712-6276
Photo of Kim Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlottesville, VA
Kim Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902  (Online Only)
Hello and warmest welcome to you. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 16 years experience working within community mental health, school based programs and university counseling centers. I specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions and stress management. I work to create a space that feels safe, nurturing, mindful and trustworthy. A place where you can feel heard, seen, supported and can express yourself freely and safely. Some modalities include Mindfulness Based practices, Strength Based, Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance Commitment therapy and more.
Hello and warmest welcome to you. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 16 years experience working within community mental health, school based programs and university counseling centers. I specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions and stress management. I work to create a space that feels safe, nurturing, mindful and trustworthy. A place where you can feel heard, seen, supported and can express yourself freely and safely. Some modalities include Mindfulness Based practices, Strength Based, Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance Commitment therapy and more.
(434) 361-3744 View (434) 361-3744
Photo of Virginia Ward in Charlottesville, VA
Virginia Ward
MEd
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901
I see individuals as capable of living a full and joyful life. I am here to facilitate the removal of those blocks, caused by past traumas, and / or difficult life transitions, that might be getting in your way. As we work together from a compassionate, strength-based perspective to remove the negative blocks (emotional and mental pain) from your path, life becomes easier and more joyful. As you heal mentally, emotionally and physically you will begin to attract those experiences and relationships into your life that are healthy, more fulfilling & enriching. My Master's degree in Counseling has prepared me for this work.
I see individuals as capable of living a full and joyful life. I am here to facilitate the removal of those blocks, caused by past traumas, and / or difficult life transitions, that might be getting in your way. As we work together from a compassionate, strength-based perspective to remove the negative blocks (emotional and mental pain) from your path, life becomes easier and more joyful. As you heal mentally, emotionally and physically you will begin to attract those experiences and relationships into your life that are healthy, more fulfilling & enriching. My Master's degree in Counseling has prepared me for this work.
(434) 215-0449 View (434) 215-0449
Photo of Leslie Harris Scott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlottesville, VA
Leslie Harris Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22903  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I have 25+ years of experience working with adults, teenagers, and families. My counseling approach is trauma-focused and strength based. As your therapist, I am committed to creating a safe space for clients to embrace growth because change occurs one small step at a time. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Mindfulness and other non-traditional integrative methods to assist clients in managing life stressors, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and trauma, as well as other mental health concerns.
As a therapist, I have 25+ years of experience working with adults, teenagers, and families. My counseling approach is trauma-focused and strength based. As your therapist, I am committed to creating a safe space for clients to embrace growth because change occurs one small step at a time. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Mindfulness and other non-traditional integrative methods to assist clients in managing life stressors, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and trauma, as well as other mental health concerns.
(434) 602-6198 View (434) 602-6198
Photo of Hiawatha Clemons III, Pre-Licensed Professional in Charlottesville, VA
Hiawatha Clemons III
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22911  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Hiawatha Clemons! Allowing yourself to be open and addressing your troubles is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of courage. At GCL Psychological, we offer confidential remote counseling for clients throughout the state of Virginia. My experience in mental health started after serving honorably for four years in the Marine Corps. I specialize in working with adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and veteran issues.
Hello, my name is Hiawatha Clemons! Allowing yourself to be open and addressing your troubles is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of courage. At GCL Psychological, we offer confidential remote counseling for clients throughout the state of Virginia. My experience in mental health started after serving honorably for four years in the Marine Corps. I specialize in working with adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and veteran issues.
(434) 686-7206 View (434) 686-7206
Photo of Shell Stern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlottesville, VA
Shell Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
I come alive partnering with the courageous ones who seek guidance looking at the tender, deep places in their lives. My therapeutic practice is grounded in the assumption that we are all doing the best we can as we tend to the joys and struggles of life. I practice from a trauma-informed perspective, and will work with you to create an emotionally safe space that honors all parts of you as we examine past coping strategies that may not be serving you well in this moment, and ultimately allow movement toward healing and transformation. I am committed to approaching my work through a justice-focused, anti-oppression lens.
I come alive partnering with the courageous ones who seek guidance looking at the tender, deep places in their lives. My therapeutic practice is grounded in the assumption that we are all doing the best we can as we tend to the joys and struggles of life. I practice from a trauma-informed perspective, and will work with you to create an emotionally safe space that honors all parts of you as we examine past coping strategies that may not be serving you well in this moment, and ultimately allow movement toward healing and transformation. I am committed to approaching my work through a justice-focused, anti-oppression lens.
(434) 299-9818 View (434) 299-9818
Photo of Angela Bost, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in Charlottesville, VA
Angela Bost
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, LSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
Welcome, and kudos on summoning the courage to embark on this initial step. If you're here, it's likely because you're experiencing pain and exhaustion from dealing with it. You've become adept at masking your struggles, but deep down, you recognize the challenges you're facing. It's perfectly alright if you're uncertain about how things will improve. By reaching out for assistance, you've already taken a significant stride towards healing. Let's commence this journey together.
Welcome, and kudos on summoning the courage to embark on this initial step. If you're here, it's likely because you're experiencing pain and exhaustion from dealing with it. You've become adept at masking your struggles, but deep down, you recognize the challenges you're facing. It's perfectly alright if you're uncertain about how things will improve. By reaching out for assistance, you've already taken a significant stride towards healing. Let's commence this journey together.
(434) 442-2560 x1 View (434) 442-2560 x1
Photo of Seasons Counseling, PLLC , Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlottesville, VA
Seasons Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Greetings! I am Anne Luckinbill, LPC. Seasons Counseling has a team of caring therapists who are skilled at assessing and diagnosing mental health concerns based on current struggles and your historical information. Your concerns about behavior, emotion, personality, and relationships will be treated using Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Trauma concerns will be addressed with an understanding that trauma impacts daily function and interactions. Likewise, early relationships and attachment patterns impact our current relationships. We serve children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
Greetings! I am Anne Luckinbill, LPC. Seasons Counseling has a team of caring therapists who are skilled at assessing and diagnosing mental health concerns based on current struggles and your historical information. Your concerns about behavior, emotion, personality, and relationships will be treated using Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Trauma concerns will be addressed with an understanding that trauma impacts daily function and interactions. Likewise, early relationships and attachment patterns impact our current relationships. We serve children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
(540) 274-1010 View (540) 274-1010
Photo of Charlottesville Empowerment, Psychologist in Charlottesville, VA
Charlottesville Empowerment
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Waitlist for new clients
We believe in intentional, flexible, and collaborative services designed to meet each client's unique needs. Empowerment is "the process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one's life and claiming one's rights." Whether you're looking for symptom reduction, healing from past experiences, increasing understanding/insight, improving relationships, gaining support during difficult times, making difficult changes, or improving/maintaining your overall wellbeing, we look forward to supporting you in reclaiming and improving your life!
We believe in intentional, flexible, and collaborative services designed to meet each client's unique needs. Empowerment is "the process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one's life and claiming one's rights." Whether you're looking for symptom reduction, healing from past experiences, increasing understanding/insight, improving relationships, gaining support during difficult times, making difficult changes, or improving/maintaining your overall wellbeing, we look forward to supporting you in reclaiming and improving your life!
View
Photo of Leon Henry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlottesville, VA
Leon Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22901
I specialize in working with children and families going through difficult times and challenging situations. I have worked as a Program Coordinator at the Boys and Girls Club as well as in residential treatment for children with behavioral challenges in western Massachusetts. The majority of my career was spent at the Department of Children and Families, CPS for the State of Mass. During my 13 years of employment at DCF, I worked in many capacities including management. These experience have helped me to understand Complex Family Dynamics, Governmental Systems, and how they related to Substance Abuse, Mental Health and Community.
I specialize in working with children and families going through difficult times and challenging situations. I have worked as a Program Coordinator at the Boys and Girls Club as well as in residential treatment for children with behavioral challenges in western Massachusetts. The majority of my career was spent at the Department of Children and Families, CPS for the State of Mass. During my 13 years of employment at DCF, I worked in many capacities including management. These experience have helped me to understand Complex Family Dynamics, Governmental Systems, and how they related to Substance Abuse, Mental Health and Community.
(434) 533-7243 View (434) 533-7243
Photo of Laura M. Van Waardenburg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlottesville, VA
Laura M. Van Waardenburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
I currently have a few openings for new clients. There is a way to feel better and get your life back. The key to making lasting improvements is to have a skilled, trained therapist help guide you with compassion. I have the experience and training to help people suffering from depression, anxiety and trauma. I work with adults to assist them in overcoming challenges that impact their lives and relationships. Sometimes memories can be so terrifying, overwhelming and painful its hard to live the life you want with out help. I enjoy helping my clients meet their goals so they can live more fully.
I currently have a few openings for new clients. There is a way to feel better and get your life back. The key to making lasting improvements is to have a skilled, trained therapist help guide you with compassion. I have the experience and training to help people suffering from depression, anxiety and trauma. I work with adults to assist them in overcoming challenges that impact their lives and relationships. Sometimes memories can be so terrifying, overwhelming and painful its hard to live the life you want with out help. I enjoy helping my clients meet their goals so they can live more fully.
(434) 771-3489 View (434) 771-3489
Photo of Christine Hitchins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlottesville, VA
Christine Hitchins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22903  (Online Only)
The human experience is such a mix of struggle and ease, suffering and joy. And depending on what life brings, sometimes there is more struggle than ease! Yet I believe we all have deep capacities for healing and for returning to our own innate wisdom and wholeness. Having a therapist you trust can be one great way to support yourself on that journey.
The human experience is such a mix of struggle and ease, suffering and joy. And depending on what life brings, sometimes there is more struggle than ease! Yet I believe we all have deep capacities for healing and for returning to our own innate wisdom and wholeness. Having a therapist you trust can be one great way to support yourself on that journey.
(434) 226-7861 View (434) 226-7861
Photo of Gabrielle Oblena, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlottesville, VA
Gabrielle Oblena
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
Hello there! I'm Gabby Oblena, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and a National Certified Counselor. Should you choose to embark on this journey with me, my aim is to empower you with the ability to embrace vulnerability, discover your resilience, foster healthier relationships with both yourself and others, and untangle any complexities you may be facing. You are in control of your voyage, and I am here to serve as your navigator, meeting you at your current point and collaborating towards achieving your desired outcomes.
Hello there! I'm Gabby Oblena, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and a National Certified Counselor. Should you choose to embark on this journey with me, my aim is to empower you with the ability to embrace vulnerability, discover your resilience, foster healthier relationships with both yourself and others, and untangle any complexities you may be facing. You are in control of your voyage, and I am here to serve as your navigator, meeting you at your current point and collaborating towards achieving your desired outcomes.
(434) 404-5016 View (434) 404-5016
Photo of Kathleen Gordon-Granado, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlottesville, VA
Kathleen Gordon-Granado
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. My focus lies predominantly with adult individuals seeking assistance in managing life stressors, navigating challenging transitions, addressing symptoms of depression or anxiety, or processing past traumatic experiences. Some individuals enter therapy with clear objectives for their lives post-treatment, while others may require assistance in identifying these initial goals. My role is to aid individuals in achieving their own life goals, fostering empowerment and growth.
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. My focus lies predominantly with adult individuals seeking assistance in managing life stressors, navigating challenging transitions, addressing symptoms of depression or anxiety, or processing past traumatic experiences. Some individuals enter therapy with clear objectives for their lives post-treatment, while others may require assistance in identifying these initial goals. My role is to aid individuals in achieving their own life goals, fostering empowerment and growth.
(434) 722-3569 x1 View (434) 722-3569 x1
Photo of Matthew Lamb, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlottesville, VA
Matthew Lamb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22906  (Online Only)
I work with individual adults interested in personal growth. Sometimes the answers we seek are within us but hidden. I am skilled at bringing these hidden things to light in a kind & compassionate way. My approach to therapy is centered on you as a person. You set the pace & focus, while I support you in clarifying your needs & how best to achieve them. I provide reflections, structure, & guidance through your process of self-discovery. Reasons for therapy might include to be more effective, manage time, illuminate a puzzling feeling, feel more like yourself, increase awareness, improve relationships, identify meaning & purpose.
I work with individual adults interested in personal growth. Sometimes the answers we seek are within us but hidden. I am skilled at bringing these hidden things to light in a kind & compassionate way. My approach to therapy is centered on you as a person. You set the pace & focus, while I support you in clarifying your needs & how best to achieve them. I provide reflections, structure, & guidance through your process of self-discovery. Reasons for therapy might include to be more effective, manage time, illuminate a puzzling feeling, feel more like yourself, increase awareness, improve relationships, identify meaning & purpose.
(434) 248-7987 View (434) 248-7987
Photo of Lila Heymann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlottesville, VA
Lila Heymann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
Hello! I'm Lila, a licensed clinical social worker with 23 years of experience across various settings. My focus is on assisting individuals who often feel overwhelmed by teaching distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Together, we'll collaborate on strategies to help you navigate your emotions effectively. Employing a holistic approach, we'll address the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. Additionally, I integrate mindfulness practices to foster a deeper connection with yourself. Whether you're grappling with challenging relationship dynamics or battling cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help!
Hello! I'm Lila, a licensed clinical social worker with 23 years of experience across various settings. My focus is on assisting individuals who often feel overwhelmed by teaching distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Together, we'll collaborate on strategies to help you navigate your emotions effectively. Employing a holistic approach, we'll address the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. Additionally, I integrate mindfulness practices to foster a deeper connection with yourself. Whether you're grappling with challenging relationship dynamics or battling cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help!
(434) 474-2591 View (434) 474-2591
Photo of Megan Kiernan, Resident in Counseling in Charlottesville, VA
Megan Kiernan
Resident in Counseling, MEd
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
I specialize in helping adults and older teens (16+) who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem and trauma. I provide a nurturing, tender and understanding space in which our connection creates the safety for growth to occur. I am not afraid of your darkest thoughts or deepest sorrows. I delight in unlocking the deep possibilities for growth that exist inside the darkness. In our work, we will discover and cultivate your wise, confident, and compassionate internal voice. A voice that each of us possess within ourselves.
I specialize in helping adults and older teens (16+) who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem and trauma. I provide a nurturing, tender and understanding space in which our connection creates the safety for growth to occur. I am not afraid of your darkest thoughts or deepest sorrows. I delight in unlocking the deep possibilities for growth that exist inside the darkness. In our work, we will discover and cultivate your wise, confident, and compassionate internal voice. A voice that each of us possess within ourselves.
(434) 202-4277 View (434) 202-4277
Photo of Tina Logan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlottesville, VA
Tina Logan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
Hi! I'm Tina, a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Virginia. With a background in both teaching and counseling children, I've found my niche in community mental health, serving both children and adults. My expertise lies in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing. I'm deeply passionate about empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and live their most fulfilling lives.
Hi! I'm Tina, a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Virginia. With a background in both teaching and counseling children, I've found my niche in community mental health, serving both children and adults. My expertise lies in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing. I'm deeply passionate about empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and live their most fulfilling lives.
(434) 216-3633 View (434) 216-3633
Photo of Michael Bankert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlottesville, VA
Michael Bankert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Connecting with a therapist is imperative to your mental health and healing. That is why I focus on meeting you where you are. We'll work together to understand your particular needs and strengths, and then create a plan that is individualized and specific to helping you reach realistic goals. You'll build useful skills for tackling life's obstacles, feel more confident in the choices you make, and experience freedom from the burdens of anxiety, depression and relationship issues. Together, we'll learn about what really matters to you and you'll take steps toward creating the change you want.
Connecting with a therapist is imperative to your mental health and healing. That is why I focus on meeting you where you are. We'll work together to understand your particular needs and strengths, and then create a plan that is individualized and specific to helping you reach realistic goals. You'll build useful skills for tackling life's obstacles, feel more confident in the choices you make, and experience freedom from the burdens of anxiety, depression and relationship issues. Together, we'll learn about what really matters to you and you'll take steps toward creating the change you want.
(434) 205-6025 View (434) 205-6025

See more therapy options for Charlottesville

Strength-Based Therapists

How does strength-based therapy work?

During strength-based therapy sessions, the therapist will ask about an individual’s experiences of stress, pain, or trauma with the goal of orienting the client to view themselves as a survivor rather than a victim, and focusing on their strengths rather than on their weaknesses. In framing a client’s personal narrative along these lines, the therapist and client work together to identify existing skills that can be harnessed.

Is strength-based therapy evidence-based?

Strength-based therapy is an evidence-based treatment that has been studied extensively and shown to be effective across domains. The treatment has been found to be particularly effective in helping individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Strength-based therapy has been used by therapists to help clients for more than 60 years.

How long does strength-based therapy last?

There’s no precise timeline for strength-based therapy. The duration of treatment depends on the individual’s specific needs and goals and the severity of their concerns. Some individuals may find they achieve their therapeutic goals quickly, while others might benefit from ongoing support and guidance in order to continue progressing.

How effective is strength-based therapy?

Clinical research and decades of practice have shown strength-based therapy to be an effective treatment to improve mental health and well-being for many conditions. The treatment can engender a sense of connection and collaboration between the therapist and the individual, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. For individuals with narcissistic tendencies, strength-based therapy may be less effective, as the focus on the individual’s strengths may undermine the work needed to honestly assess the challenges the individual faces.