Strength-Based Therapists in Chesapeake, VA

Photo of Esther Levine, Resident in Counseling in Chesapeake, VA
Esther Levine
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23322
My approach to counseling is eclectic and incorporates person-centered, strength-based, trauma-focused, and play-based interventions.
Imagine a space where you can be your authentic self, express your deepest concerns without fear, where your thoughts and feelings matter, and where your experiences are acknowledged and respected. I am a Resident in Counseling who is here to guide, support, and empower you every step of the way on your journey towards healing. I work with children ages 4 & up, adolescents, adults, individuals, groups, couples, and families to explore strategies to navigate challenges, develop coping mechanisms, and build a strong foundation for your mental and emotional well-being.
My approach to counseling is eclectic and incorporates person-centered, strength-based, trauma-focused, and play-based interventions.
Imagine a space where you can be your authentic self, express your deepest concerns without fear, where your thoughts and feelings matter, and where your experiences are acknowledged and respected. I am a Resident in Counseling who is here to guide, support, and empower you every step of the way on your journey towards healing. I work with children ages 4 & up, adolescents, adults, individuals, groups, couples, and families to explore strategies to navigate challenges, develop coping mechanisms, and build a strong foundation for your mental and emotional well-being.
(757) 780-1176 View (757) 780-1176
Photo of Madeline Garrett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chesapeake, VA
Madeline Garrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23321  (Online Only)
She is a compassionate counselor who utilizes strength-based, collaborative, relational, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, motivational, and solution-focused approaches to therapy.
Madeline Garrett is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Virginia and Florida who has over 9 years of experience providing clinical assessments and therapeutic care to teens and adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, addiction, co-dependency, grief and loss, parenting assistance, and sexuality issues. She identifies as an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and affirms all spiritual beliefs. Madeline completed her Bachelor of Psychology from Florida State University, Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California, and her Master of Leadership from Grand Canyon University.
She is a compassionate counselor who utilizes strength-based, collaborative, relational, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, motivational, and solution-focused approaches to therapy.
Madeline Garrett is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Virginia and Florida who has over 9 years of experience providing clinical assessments and therapeutic care to teens and adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, addiction, co-dependency, grief and loss, parenting assistance, and sexuality issues. She identifies as an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and affirms all spiritual beliefs. Madeline completed her Bachelor of Psychology from Florida State University, Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California, and her Master of Leadership from Grand Canyon University.
(757) 993-4369 View (757) 993-4369
Photo of Michela Allen, Resident in Counseling in Chesapeake, VA
Michela Allen
Resident in Counseling, MA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I utilize Cognitive Behavior therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and strength-based approaches to counseling.
Hello! I am a Resident in Counseling with 15 years of experience working in the mental health and substance use field. I utilize person-centered practices to assist individuals in increasing their coping skills to address various life challenges. My approach to counseling promotes discovering an individual’s passions, talents, and strengths while promoting healthy living.
I utilize Cognitive Behavior therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and strength-based approaches to counseling.
Hello! I am a Resident in Counseling with 15 years of experience working in the mental health and substance use field. I utilize person-centered practices to assist individuals in increasing their coping skills to address various life challenges. My approach to counseling promotes discovering an individual’s passions, talents, and strengths while promoting healthy living.
(757) 637-1349 View (757) 637-1349
Photo of Dr. LaVerne M Dowling, Psychologist in Chesapeake, VA
Dr. LaVerne M Dowling
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320  (Online Only)
Focus Behavioral Health Group, LLC encompasses clinical providers focused on life enriching and mindful solutions for people with mental health, relationship, career, or life challenges. Dr. Dowling’s counseling style is supportive, strength-based and rooted in a cognitive behavioral approach. She recognizes that every individual has unique goals. Collaboratively, we will work together to develop skills and insights that facilitate mind, body, and spiritual health.
Focus Behavioral Health Group, LLC encompasses clinical providers focused on life enriching and mindful solutions for people with mental health, relationship, career, or life challenges. Dr. Dowling’s counseling style is supportive, strength-based and rooted in a cognitive behavioral approach. She recognizes that every individual has unique goals. Collaboratively, we will work together to develop skills and insights that facilitate mind, body, and spiritual health.
(757) 908-6861 View (757) 908-6861
Photo of Cheniqua Goode, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesapeake, VA
Cheniqua Goode
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23322  (Online Only)
Utilizing a strength-based and collaborative approach, I provide an emotionally safe therapeutic environment.
There are times when life throws curve balls, leaving you unable to cope. You may feel depressed, anxious, alone, or unsure how to function in relationships, work environemnt, and the world around you. Perhaps, you are at a place in life where you just need additional support, outside of family and friends. Regardless of the reason, congratulations on taking the first step towards your new journey. Together, we can process the stressors and identify healthy coping skills to manage emotions and navigate through life challenges.
Utilizing a strength-based and collaborative approach, I provide an emotionally safe therapeutic environment.
There are times when life throws curve balls, leaving you unable to cope. You may feel depressed, anxious, alone, or unsure how to function in relationships, work environemnt, and the world around you. Perhaps, you are at a place in life where you just need additional support, outside of family and friends. Regardless of the reason, congratulations on taking the first step towards your new journey. Together, we can process the stressors and identify healthy coping skills to manage emotions and navigate through life challenges.
(757) 280-1829 View (757) 280-1829
Photo of Shannon 'libby' Cutshall, Psychologist in Chesapeake, VA
Shannon 'libby' Cutshall
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I hold dual licensure in Virginia as a counselor and clinical psychologist. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations in various clinical settings. My clinical experience has encompassed many psychotherapy treatment modalities as well as expertise in psychotherapy and psychological testing assessments for both adolescents and adults. I offer quality, specialized, and in-depth psychological services, in a safe and comfortable setting, to as many individuals as are willing to show up for themselves, roll up their sleeves and dive into the intensive work of healing.
I hold dual licensure in Virginia as a counselor and clinical psychologist. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations in various clinical settings. My clinical experience has encompassed many psychotherapy treatment modalities as well as expertise in psychotherapy and psychological testing assessments for both adolescents and adults. I offer quality, specialized, and in-depth psychological services, in a safe and comfortable setting, to as many individuals as are willing to show up for themselves, roll up their sleeves and dive into the intensive work of healing.
(757) 384-1204 View (757) 384-1204
Photo of Lemuel Osbert Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesapeake, VA
Lemuel Osbert Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CT, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
"Life without change is not living; To be uncomfortable means that change is right around the corner!" I believe these words wholeheartedly as every individual arrives at a crossroads that determine whether they move forward, backward or remain stagnant. I work alongside those who may be within a crossroad in life that has them questioning which direction to choose. In my work as a Therapist, my clinical training and experience encompasses depression, couples enrichment, grief/loss, separation/divorce, relationship issues, and other emotional/interpersonal disturbances. I specialize in trauma such as sexual abuse, domestic violence, and death/illness.
"Life without change is not living; To be uncomfortable means that change is right around the corner!" I believe these words wholeheartedly as every individual arrives at a crossroads that determine whether they move forward, backward or remain stagnant. I work alongside those who may be within a crossroad in life that has them questioning which direction to choose. In my work as a Therapist, my clinical training and experience encompasses depression, couples enrichment, grief/loss, separation/divorce, relationship issues, and other emotional/interpersonal disturbances. I specialize in trauma such as sexual abuse, domestic violence, and death/illness.
(757) 663-5958 View (757) 663-5958
Photo of Heart and Soul Child and Family Services,PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesapeake, VA
Heart and Soul Child and Family Services,PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23321
Heart and Soul-Child and Family Services works with the effects of depression, anxiety, trauma, low self esteem, relationship issues, life stressors or the overwhelming feelings that come with your child's behavior? We work with you or your children to address behavioral and mental health concerns.
Heart and Soul-Child and Family Services works with the effects of depression, anxiety, trauma, low self esteem, relationship issues, life stressors or the overwhelming feelings that come with your child's behavior? We work with you or your children to address behavioral and mental health concerns.
(757) 210-7432 View (757) 210-7432
Photo of John Stacy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesapeake, VA
John Stacy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize CBT, EMDR and strength-based approaches to help client's regain a sense of self.
Hello, I am the owner of Redefine Therapy, LLC in Norfolk. I currently have a waitlist but my staff may be able to help. Do you ever feel lost or unsure of where to turn? Life can easily become overwhelming and it's during these times that having someone supportive will help. Our goal as a therapists are to look at each individual holistically, helping clients improve their mental, emotional, and physical health. We feel that each person has the ability to overcome life's hardships but may need some assistance in achieving their goals. Ultimately, we believe you are the expert of your own life.
I utilize CBT, EMDR and strength-based approaches to help client's regain a sense of self.
Hello, I am the owner of Redefine Therapy, LLC in Norfolk. I currently have a waitlist but my staff may be able to help. Do you ever feel lost or unsure of where to turn? Life can easily become overwhelming and it's during these times that having someone supportive will help. Our goal as a therapists are to look at each individual holistically, helping clients improve their mental, emotional, and physical health. We feel that each person has the ability to overcome life's hardships but may need some assistance in achieving their goals. Ultimately, we believe you are the expert of your own life.
(757) 997-1430 View (757) 997-1430
Photo of Carolina Orlando, Resident in Counseling in Chesapeake, VA
Carolina Orlando
Resident in Counseling, LPC-R
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23323  (Online Only)
Over the past 15 years, I have immersed myself in the mental health field. I am passionate about the mental health field, and it is that passion that drives my approach to care. I am a fervent advocate of a supportive, ethical, and professional attitude in counseling. By providing necessary resources and employing efficient counseling skills, I aim to enhance the success of those who need help the most. My focus is on working alongside my clients, fostering their strengths, and empowering them to better manage their struggles with mental health and addiction. One of the areas where I shine is in my use of strength-based skills.
Over the past 15 years, I have immersed myself in the mental health field. I am passionate about the mental health field, and it is that passion that drives my approach to care. I am a fervent advocate of a supportive, ethical, and professional attitude in counseling. By providing necessary resources and employing efficient counseling skills, I aim to enhance the success of those who need help the most. My focus is on working alongside my clients, fostering their strengths, and empowering them to better manage their struggles with mental health and addiction. One of the areas where I shine is in my use of strength-based skills.
(757) 551-9739 View (757) 551-9739
Photo of Alexandra Johnston, Resident in Counseling in Chesapeake, VA
Alexandra Johnston
Resident in Counseling, MSEd
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23324
No one should ever feel alone when they are struggling with life’s challenges. My approach to counseling is to provide a respectful environment where your voice is heard and where we work as a team to address your concerns and overcome potential obstacles. Counseling with me is individualized - tailored to your specific needs - and based on your personal values so that you can live a meaningful life and achieve your version of wellness.
No one should ever feel alone when they are struggling with life’s challenges. My approach to counseling is to provide a respectful environment where your voice is heard and where we work as a team to address your concerns and overcome potential obstacles. Counseling with me is individualized - tailored to your specific needs - and based on your personal values so that you can live a meaningful life and achieve your version of wellness.
(757) 290-1913 View (757) 290-1913
Photo of Jennifer E. Black, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chesapeake, VA
Jennifer E. Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23325
My strength-based therapy approach is holistic and intersectional with the goal of identifying tangible tools for regaining control of one's wellness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Yoga Instructor (RYT-500) who is invigorated by supporting people seeking guidance and healing to improve their quality of life. My academic and career experience has centered the therapeutic needs of BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, survivors of trauma, as well as persons managing life transitions including relationship distress, grief and loss. I have also worked closely with military service members and their families across all branches and served as a deployed counselor for several years. Additionally, I provide supervision to people seeking clinical social work licensure.
My strength-based therapy approach is holistic and intersectional with the goal of identifying tangible tools for regaining control of one's wellness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Yoga Instructor (RYT-500) who is invigorated by supporting people seeking guidance and healing to improve their quality of life. My academic and career experience has centered the therapeutic needs of BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, survivors of trauma, as well as persons managing life transitions including relationship distress, grief and loss. I have also worked closely with military service members and their families across all branches and served as a deployed counselor for several years. Additionally, I provide supervision to people seeking clinical social work licensure.
(757) 568-8694 View (757) 568-8694
Photo of Chevelle Newton, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in Chesapeake, VA
Chevelle Newton
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I would be honored to assist you in beginning that process to provide you with the tools using Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Compassionate and Strength-based approaches.
Just like physical healing is a process, so is the healing of the mind body and spirit. I love helping individuals enhance their emotional and spiritual well-being. I have over 20 years in the Behavioral Mental Health Field working within a variety of co-occurring populations of stress, anxiety, depression, and grief and loss from younger to older adults. I have worked in both veteran and crisis behavioral healthcare settings for several years. I graduated receiving an MSW with a concentration in Military Specialization and conducted groups in both arenas.
I would be honored to assist you in beginning that process to provide you with the tools using Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Compassionate and Strength-based approaches.
Just like physical healing is a process, so is the healing of the mind body and spirit. I love helping individuals enhance their emotional and spiritual well-being. I have over 20 years in the Behavioral Mental Health Field working within a variety of co-occurring populations of stress, anxiety, depression, and grief and loss from younger to older adults. I have worked in both veteran and crisis behavioral healthcare settings for several years. I graduated receiving an MSW with a concentration in Military Specialization and conducted groups in both arenas.
(757) 514-8480 View (757) 514-8480
Photo of Kieshara Matthews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chesapeake, VA
Kieshara Matthews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320
Hello, my name is Kieshara Matthews. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have experience in mental health and career counseling. I'm passionate about helping people heal from childhood trauma and break generational curses. I currently provide therapy to young adults and adults who seek support in managing the demands of adulting, relationship distress, and family relationships. Providing a non-judgmental, client-centered, and strength-based approach, I provide a warm and safe environment that allows my clients to process their thoughts and feelings to provide clarity when they need it the most.
Hello, my name is Kieshara Matthews. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have experience in mental health and career counseling. I'm passionate about helping people heal from childhood trauma and break generational curses. I currently provide therapy to young adults and adults who seek support in managing the demands of adulting, relationship distress, and family relationships. Providing a non-judgmental, client-centered, and strength-based approach, I provide a warm and safe environment that allows my clients to process their thoughts and feelings to provide clarity when they need it the most.
(757) 798-7667 View (757) 798-7667
Photo of Jess Callaway, Resident in Counseling in Chesapeake, VA
Jess Callaway
Resident in Counseling
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I utilize an integrative approach mixing mindfulness, cognitive behavioral, strength-based, and trauma-informed techniques to match your needs.
Hi there! My experience and passion brings me here to work alongside you to learn new insights and gain additional tools to achieve the goals you have. Dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, high sensitivity, and behavioral problems is difficult to do alone. I will work with you or your child and teen so that you can live the life/lives you want. I believe with honesty, openness, and a safe non-judgmental space you can overcome most anything.
I utilize an integrative approach mixing mindfulness, cognitive behavioral, strength-based, and trauma-informed techniques to match your needs.
Hi there! My experience and passion brings me here to work alongside you to learn new insights and gain additional tools to achieve the goals you have. Dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, high sensitivity, and behavioral problems is difficult to do alone. I will work with you or your child and teen so that you can live the life/lives you want. I believe with honesty, openness, and a safe non-judgmental space you can overcome most anything.
(757) 260-3637 View (757) 260-3637
Photo of April Parker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesapeake, VA
April Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 11 years of experience in the field. I have worked with youth, adults, couples, and families with diverse mental health concerns. I specialize in relationship issues, family conflict, coping skills, and life transitions alongside anxiety, depression, and grief. During sessions, I utilize a mix of strength-based, culturally sensitive, person-centered, humanistic,and compassion-focused therapies. I ensure that I answer any questions my clients have for me as a therapist or the therapy process and get a sense of their expectations and goals for treatment.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 11 years of experience in the field. I have worked with youth, adults, couples, and families with diverse mental health concerns. I specialize in relationship issues, family conflict, coping skills, and life transitions alongside anxiety, depression, and grief. During sessions, I utilize a mix of strength-based, culturally sensitive, person-centered, humanistic,and compassion-focused therapies. I ensure that I answer any questions my clients have for me as a therapist or the therapy process and get a sense of their expectations and goals for treatment.
(571) 517-2629 View (571) 517-2629
Photo of Sharde' O'Rourke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesapeake, VA
Sharde' O'Rourke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LSATP, CCTP, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320  (Online Only)
I love the opportunity that I am allowed to be given insight to the lives of others. I enjoy working with individuals that struggle with racial injustices, discrimination, co-occurring issues, identity/sexuality concerns/barriers, relationship issues/problems, substance abuse/use/addiction issues, LGBT related concerns, and add/adhd. I have varied experience with working with families, couples and individuals (both children and adults). Individuals who desire change and will put in the work for it to be different ... you are looking for me.We are currently offering FREE therapeutic services to military members, veterans.
I love the opportunity that I am allowed to be given insight to the lives of others. I enjoy working with individuals that struggle with racial injustices, discrimination, co-occurring issues, identity/sexuality concerns/barriers, relationship issues/problems, substance abuse/use/addiction issues, LGBT related concerns, and add/adhd. I have varied experience with working with families, couples and individuals (both children and adults). Individuals who desire change and will put in the work for it to be different ... you are looking for me.We are currently offering FREE therapeutic services to military members, veterans.
(757) 347-5904 View (757) 347-5904
Photo of Jodi Baker-Hutchinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chesapeake, VA
Jodi Baker-Hutchinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23322
Are you feeling overwhelmed, lost, depressed, anxious or alone? I am here to help. I practice from a Holistic perspective as I believe in the mind/body connection and healing starting from this point. I strive to empower the people I work with as true change happens in this way. We all suffer on some level and sometimes we stand in our own way, underestimating our ability to heal. Unconditional love toward self, creating a vision and working on decreasing the negative thoughts that cause depression, anxiety, low self-esteem is what I incorporate into my therapy sessions.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, lost, depressed, anxious or alone? I am here to help. I practice from a Holistic perspective as I believe in the mind/body connection and healing starting from this point. I strive to empower the people I work with as true change happens in this way. We all suffer on some level and sometimes we stand in our own way, underestimating our ability to heal. Unconditional love toward self, creating a vision and working on decreasing the negative thoughts that cause depression, anxiety, low self-esteem is what I incorporate into my therapy sessions.
(757) 663-5247 View (757) 663-5247
Photo of Abigail Powell in Chesapeake, VA
Abigail Powell
MA
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320
Abigail is a Clinical Psychology Ph.D. candidate at Saybrook University. Additionally, she holds a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Saybrook University and a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology from Texas A&M University. Since entering the mental health field nearly a decade ago, Abigail has gained experience working with children, adolescents, teens, and adults in a therapeutic setting along with military families and couples.
Abigail is a Clinical Psychology Ph.D. candidate at Saybrook University. Additionally, she holds a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Saybrook University and a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology from Texas A&M University. Since entering the mental health field nearly a decade ago, Abigail has gained experience working with children, adolescents, teens, and adults in a therapeutic setting along with military families and couples.
(757) 801-2219 View (757) 801-2219
Photo of Shelby Dillingham, Resident in Counseling in Chesapeake, VA
Shelby Dillingham
Resident in Counseling, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
My clinical experiences include working with adolescents and adults in a range of settings, such as inpatient behavioral health units, outpatient private practice, and integrated healthcare clinics. These experiences allowed me to work with various presenting concerns, such as depression, anxiety, substance use, relationship concerns, smoking cessation, and trauma. I collaborate with clients to develop individualized goals unique to their needs.
My clinical experiences include working with adolescents and adults in a range of settings, such as inpatient behavioral health units, outpatient private practice, and integrated healthcare clinics. These experiences allowed me to work with various presenting concerns, such as depression, anxiety, substance use, relationship concerns, smoking cessation, and trauma. I collaborate with clients to develop individualized goals unique to their needs.
(757) 997-7032 View (757) 997-7032
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.