Life Transitions Therapists in Cave Spring, VA

Photo of Tracy Lyn Helmer, Psychologist
Tracy Lyn Helmer
Psychologist
1 Endorsed
Online Only
For over 30 years I’ve helped clients navigate anxiety, life transitions, self‑esteem and shame, relationship conflict, and questions about sexual orientation and gender identity.
I am especially experienced in: Adolescent & family therapy (parenting support, teen behavior & communication); Anxiety, worry & panic; Couples therapy and relationship rebuilding; LGBTQ+ identity, coming out, and family acceptance; Transitions: school, work, relationship, and identity changes; Addressing low self‑confidence, guilt, and shame
For over 30 years I’ve helped clients navigate anxiety, life transitions, self‑esteem and shame, relationship conflict, and questions about sexual orientation and gender identity.
I am especially experienced in: Adolescent & family therapy (parenting support, teen behavior & communication); Anxiety, worry & panic; Couples therapy and relationship rebuilding; LGBTQ+ identity, coming out, and family acceptance; Transitions: school, work, relationship, and identity changes; Addressing low self‑confidence, guilt, and shame
(540) 501-6415 View (540) 501-6415
Photo of Dominique Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Dominique Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I support clients navigating crisis, burnout, and life transitions with a grounded space to process, stabilize, and build coping tools.
Some realizations don’t arrive in loud moments. They come in the quiet pauses of life on a late-night drive, folding laundry, or while the house finally sleeps. That’s when you feel the weight of what you’ve been carrying: a diagnosis, caregiving, shifting responsibilities, or the exhaustion of holding it all together. I work with adults (18+) across life stages navigating burnout, caregiver stress, grief, medical challenges, and transitions. Many are the ones others rely on, but rarely feel supported. I help you slow down, process, and find steadiness.
I support clients navigating crisis, burnout, and life transitions with a grounded space to process, stabilize, and build coping tools.
Some realizations don’t arrive in loud moments. They come in the quiet pauses of life on a late-night drive, folding laundry, or while the house finally sleeps. That’s when you feel the weight of what you’ve been carrying: a diagnosis, caregiving, shifting responsibilities, or the exhaustion of holding it all together. I work with adults (18+) across life stages navigating burnout, caregiver stress, grief, medical challenges, and transitions. Many are the ones others rely on, but rarely feel supported. I help you slow down, process, and find steadiness.
(571) 240-4618 View (571) 240-4618
Photo of Heidi Ann Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Heidi Ann Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with adults and couples who are dealing with: stress, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, life transition issues and copendency.
I specialize in helping clients find their personal path to healing and growth by utilizing a strength based approach that incorporates CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness-based techniques, guided imagery and expressive therapies. I have unconditional regard for my clients and my style is warm and compassionate.
I work with adults and couples who are dealing with: stress, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, life transition issues and copendency.
I specialize in helping clients find their personal path to healing and growth by utilizing a strength based approach that incorporates CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness-based techniques, guided imagery and expressive therapies. I have unconditional regard for my clients and my style is warm and compassionate.
(540) 782-3911 View (540) 782-3911
Photo of Macy D'Elia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Macy D'Elia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
I deeply value developing authentic relationships in my practice because I know that if I don't present as my true self, I can't expect that of you. My goal is always to meet you where you are. Whether you are feeling down, anxious, or having difficulty coping with daily life stressors, I want to help you navigate through so you can get to a healthier, happier place. I provide a comfortable space that is shame and judgment free so that we can work together to process complex emotions and better.understand any patterns that are getting in the way of you being the person you want to be.
I deeply value developing authentic relationships in my practice because I know that if I don't present as my true self, I can't expect that of you. My goal is always to meet you where you are. Whether you are feeling down, anxious, or having difficulty coping with daily life stressors, I want to help you navigate through so you can get to a healthier, happier place. I provide a comfortable space that is shame and judgment free so that we can work together to process complex emotions and better.understand any patterns that are getting in the way of you being the person you want to be.
(571) 518-5298 View (571) 518-5298
Photo of Cecilia Vera, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Cecilia Vera
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m Cecilia, a Licensed Professional Counselor working with adults navigating anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions, and cultural adjustment challenges.
I use a person-centered approach and tailor therapy to your unique needs. I draw from evidence-based practices such as CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal Therapy. We’ll move at your pace and adjust along the way, making sure our work together feels supportive and helpful.
I’m Cecilia, a Licensed Professional Counselor working with adults navigating anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions, and cultural adjustment challenges.
I use a person-centered approach and tailor therapy to your unique needs. I draw from evidence-based practices such as CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal Therapy. We’ll move at your pace and adjust along the way, making sure our work together feels supportive and helpful.
(540) 616-3310 View (540) 616-3310
Photo of Shannon Roosma, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Shannon Roosma
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Cave Spring, VA 24018
At Thriveworks, we specialize in helping with issues like anxiety, depression, grief/loss, stress, life transitions, and more.
I am Shannon, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with approximately 10 years of experience in providing mental health services in multiple environments. I have had the opportunity to work in private practice, university counseling centers, and crisis services. I have worked with clients facing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, abuse histories, relationship issues, stress, life changes, personal growth, and family of origin issues.
At Thriveworks, we specialize in helping with issues like anxiety, depression, grief/loss, stress, life transitions, and more.
I am Shannon, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with approximately 10 years of experience in providing mental health services in multiple environments. I have had the opportunity to work in private practice, university counseling centers, and crisis services. I have worked with clients facing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, abuse histories, relationship issues, stress, life changes, personal growth, and family of origin issues.
(540) 730-2609 View (540) 730-2609
Photo of Ponteaah Monica Alexander, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Ponteaah Monica Alexander
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I specialize in emotional dysregulation, depression disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, interpersonal conflict, grief, major life transitions, complex trauma, and mindfulness practices.
I completed my Master of Arts in Professional Counseling (MA) at Liberty University in 2012. I am a wife and mother and an active member of my community and church. These roles, coupled with my clinical training and experience, allow me to have an effective approach to problem-solving with modalities such as DBT and CBT.
I specialize in emotional dysregulation, depression disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, interpersonal conflict, grief, major life transitions, complex trauma, and mindfulness practices.
I completed my Master of Arts in Professional Counseling (MA) at Liberty University in 2012. I am a wife and mother and an active member of my community and church. These roles, coupled with my clinical training and experience, allow me to have an effective approach to problem-solving with modalities such as DBT and CBT.
(540) 351-9962 View (540) 351-9962
Photo of Lisa C Westmoreland - Westmoreland Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Westmoreland Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Cave Spring, VA 24018
Are you looking to enhance your well-being, find support through a life transition or reduce stress?
Areas of special interest and experience: adjustment disorders, trauma/stress (physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, rape, accidents, veterans); depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks), life transitions; career issues; loss and grief; self-esteem; stress management and chronic pain.
Are you looking to enhance your well-being, find support through a life transition or reduce stress?
Areas of special interest and experience: adjustment disorders, trauma/stress (physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, rape, accidents, veterans); depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks), life transitions; career issues; loss and grief; self-esteem; stress management and chronic pain.
(540) 709-7530 View (540) 709-7530
Photo of Karen Burroughs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Karen Burroughs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Cave Spring, VA 24018
Currently accepting new clients in person or via telehealth. We all struggle at times and may have difficulty managing life. Healing from trauma can feel isolating, and you might doubt that it’s possible. Healing is a rewarding gift you can give to yourself and to those around you. You are worth the investment of time, tears, and energy it takes to truly heal. I believe in building therapeutic relationships that can transform lives. My goal is to empower you to unpack and heal from patterns that hinder you from becoming the person you want to be—whoever that is.
Currently accepting new clients in person or via telehealth. We all struggle at times and may have difficulty managing life. Healing from trauma can feel isolating, and you might doubt that it’s possible. Healing is a rewarding gift you can give to yourself and to those around you. You are worth the investment of time, tears, and energy it takes to truly heal. I believe in building therapeutic relationships that can transform lives. My goal is to empower you to unpack and heal from patterns that hinder you from becoming the person you want to be—whoever that is.
(804) 294-3238 View (804) 294-3238
Photo of Nicole Byrd, Resident in Counseling, MA, LPC-R
Nicole Byrd
Resident in Counseling, MA, LPC-R
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with children, teens, and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, trauma, or depression; which are often connected to family dynamics, foster care experiences, relationship stress, or major life transitions.
With 19 years of experience supporting children, families, and adults, I specialize in treating trauma-related disorders, anxiety, and depression. For children, I often use play therapy, which allows them to communicate and heal through creativity and expression. For teens and adults, I blend evidence-based practices with a compassionate, client-centered approach to help uncover root issues and develop practical coping strategies.
I work with children, teens, and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, trauma, or depression; which are often connected to family dynamics, foster care experiences, relationship stress, or major life transitions.
With 19 years of experience supporting children, families, and adults, I specialize in treating trauma-related disorders, anxiety, and depression. For children, I often use play therapy, which allows them to communicate and heal through creativity and expression. For teens and adults, I blend evidence-based practices with a compassionate, client-centered approach to help uncover root issues and develop practical coping strategies.
(540) 738-7459 View (540) 738-7459
Photo of Dr. Dana Ripley, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-VA, LPCC-KY, PhD
Dr. Dana Ripley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-VA, LPCC-KY, PhD
Online Only
One of my favorite things about counseling is the opportunity to connect with clients in a meaningful and authentic way. We all desire to be truly seen, and yet we often struggle with finding that in our relationships. Trauma, depression, anxiety, and negative core beliefs get in the way of developing the love and connection we desire. I specialize in helping individuals understand their relational dynamics and discover how to find and sustain meaningful connections.
One of my favorite things about counseling is the opportunity to connect with clients in a meaningful and authentic way. We all desire to be truly seen, and yet we often struggle with finding that in our relationships. Trauma, depression, anxiety, and negative core beliefs get in the way of developing the love and connection we desire. I specialize in helping individuals understand their relational dynamics and discover how to find and sustain meaningful connections.
(540) 709-9744 View (540) 709-9744
Lauren Carroll
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA Ed
1 Endorsed
Cave Spring, VA 24018
You may feel like you’ve been wandering without a map—overwhelmed by anxiety, burnout, grief, or the quiet weight of not quite fitting in. Maybe you’re navigating trauma or complex relationships, or trying to understand your authentic self in a world that often asks you to be someone else. Whatever has brought you here, you don’t have to walk this path alone. At Garden Path Therapy, I see healing as a slow, intentional return to self—like tending to a garden. Together, we’ll clear space, plant new seeds, and nurture the parts of you that have long been neglected. It doesn’t have to be tidy or perfect. We work with what’s real.
You may feel like you’ve been wandering without a map—overwhelmed by anxiety, burnout, grief, or the quiet weight of not quite fitting in. Maybe you’re navigating trauma or complex relationships, or trying to understand your authentic self in a world that often asks you to be someone else. Whatever has brought you here, you don’t have to walk this path alone. At Garden Path Therapy, I see healing as a slow, intentional return to self—like tending to a garden. Together, we’ll clear space, plant new seeds, and nurture the parts of you that have long been neglected. It doesn’t have to be tidy or perfect. We work with what’s real.
(540) 426-1291 View (540) 426-1291
Photo of Stefanie Kinzie, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW, LMHP-S
Stefanie Kinzie
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW, LMHP-S
Cave Spring, VA 24018
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of anxiety, depression, or a range of symptoms that leave you feeling lost and like you can't move forward? Maybe you are having a mental health crisis, have lost a loved one, are feeling unbearable sadness from recent life changes, or have a new diagnosis that has left you with more questions than answers. Or maybe you are experiencing addictions, compulsions, or obsessive thoughts that keep you from doing the things that you used to love and enjoy. If any of this sounds like you, I would love to chat more about ways to help you reclaim your sense of control, safety, and joy in life.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of anxiety, depression, or a range of symptoms that leave you feeling lost and like you can't move forward? Maybe you are having a mental health crisis, have lost a loved one, are feeling unbearable sadness from recent life changes, or have a new diagnosis that has left you with more questions than answers. Or maybe you are experiencing addictions, compulsions, or obsessive thoughts that keep you from doing the things that you used to love and enjoy. If any of this sounds like you, I would love to chat more about ways to help you reclaim your sense of control, safety, and joy in life.
(540) 926-8700 View (540) 926-8700
Photo of Brionna Ensor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Brionna Ensor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Cave Spring, VA 24018
Life can be hard and fitting in therapy even harder, I offer late afternoon appointments 3 days of the week to help navigate those curve balls that life throws at us. As a therapist my goal is to provide a safe and caring environment where you can release everything without judgement and help provide solutions to our everyday “problems”.
Life can be hard and fitting in therapy even harder, I offer late afternoon appointments 3 days of the week to help navigate those curve balls that life throws at us. As a therapist my goal is to provide a safe and caring environment where you can release everything without judgement and help provide solutions to our everyday “problems”.
(540) 726-0458 View (540) 726-0458
Photo of Patrick Knicely, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Patrick Knicely
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Patrick! I help high-achieving men break free from burnout, brain fog, and chronic stress when therapy, fitness, and health hacks haven’t worked. I focus on fixing the real root causes—like gut health, hormone imbalances, and brain chemistry—so you can get your energy, focus, and confidence back.
Hi there, I'm Patrick! I help high-achieving men break free from burnout, brain fog, and chronic stress when therapy, fitness, and health hacks haven’t worked. I focus on fixing the real root causes—like gut health, hormone imbalances, and brain chemistry—so you can get your energy, focus, and confidence back.
(804) 352-1784 View (804) 352-1784
Photo of Olivia Oakley, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Olivia Oakley
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
2 Endorsed
Cave Spring, VA 24018
I'm a warm, client-centered therapist who supports teens (14+) and adults in navigating anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, identity exploration, and major life transitions.
My style is compassionate, collaborative, and non-judgemental. I use evidence-based approaches like ACT, EMDR, TF-CBT, and communication skill-building. My work is trauma-informed and affirming, especially for clients exploring identity, managing avoidance, or rebuilding self-esteem.
I'm a warm, client-centered therapist who supports teens (14+) and adults in navigating anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, identity exploration, and major life transitions.
My style is compassionate, collaborative, and non-judgemental. I use evidence-based approaches like ACT, EMDR, TF-CBT, and communication skill-building. My work is trauma-informed and affirming, especially for clients exploring identity, managing avoidance, or rebuilding self-esteem.
(540) 306-4707 View (540) 306-4707
Photo of Drew Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Drew Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
3 Endorsed
Cave Spring, VA 24018
If you are feeling lost, stuck, or out of touch with your self, I would welcome the chance to meet you. Maybe you have had counseling before and need to revisit something, or maybe all of this is new and intimidating. Whatever your perspective now, there is always something to be gained through exploration.
If you are feeling lost, stuck, or out of touch with your self, I would welcome the chance to meet you. Maybe you have had counseling before and need to revisit something, or maybe all of this is new and intimidating. Whatever your perspective now, there is always something to be gained through exploration.
(540) 340-5085 View (540) 340-5085
Photo of Kyle House, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kyle House
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
At Thriveworks, we specialize in helping with issues like anxiety, depression, grief/loss, stress, life transitions, and more.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with seven years of experience, specializing in working with adolescents through adulthood, though I work with people of all ages. I am experienced in treating a range of diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, family systems and attachment disorders, substance-related disorders, stage-of-life changes, and grief and loss.
At Thriveworks, we specialize in helping with issues like anxiety, depression, grief/loss, stress, life transitions, and more.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with seven years of experience, specializing in working with adolescents through adulthood, though I work with people of all ages. I am experienced in treating a range of diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, family systems and attachment disorders, substance-related disorders, stage-of-life changes, and grief and loss.
(540) 486-2815 View (540) 486-2815
Photo of Kristy Ayers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kristy Ayers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
As a trauma-focused, humanistic, and attachment-based therapist, I integrate evidence-informed practices with a deep respect for each client's unique strengths and experiences. I am a trained practitioner of Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), an approach rooted in connection, empowerment, and correction that is especially effective with individuals who have experienced trauma, loss, or attachment disruptions. I offer a safe, nonjudgemental space to explore your experiences, reconnect with your strengths, and rebuild a healthier sense of self.
As a trauma-focused, humanistic, and attachment-based therapist, I integrate evidence-informed practices with a deep respect for each client's unique strengths and experiences. I am a trained practitioner of Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), an approach rooted in connection, empowerment, and correction that is especially effective with individuals who have experienced trauma, loss, or attachment disruptions. I offer a safe, nonjudgemental space to explore your experiences, reconnect with your strengths, and rebuild a healthier sense of self.
(540) 401-5083 View (540) 401-5083
Photo of Megan Ellis, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LSATP
Megan Ellis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LSATP
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed with the problems in your life? Or dealing with an issue that is bigger than what you can handle on your own? You have made a great choice today in reaching out for help. Enduring the difficult times in life can be daunting unless we have the right people surrounding us. If you are experiencing grief and loss, relationship issues, increased anxiety, changes in your mood and energy level, or issues around spirituality, I would love to help you! I want you to know that you don't have to go it alone. You are taking the right step in reaching out for help.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with the problems in your life? Or dealing with an issue that is bigger than what you can handle on your own? You have made a great choice today in reaching out for help. Enduring the difficult times in life can be daunting unless we have the right people surrounding us. If you are experiencing grief and loss, relationship issues, increased anxiety, changes in your mood and energy level, or issues around spirituality, I would love to help you! I want you to know that you don't have to go it alone. You are taking the right step in reaching out for help.
(540) 258-4065 View (540) 258-4065

See more therapy options for Cave Spring

FAQ - Life Transitions Counseling
What counts as a life transition?
A life transition is any change in life circumstances that requires a person to adapt, whether in their relationships, identity, responsibilities, or daily routine. Major life transitions may include getting married, starting a new career, becoming a parent, navigating the loss of a close loved one, retiring, experiencing a major change in health, or moving to a new area. Life transitions can also be smaller or more gradual, such as graduating to a new school, recovering from an injury, taking on more responsibility at work, or adjusting to a new phase of life. Both major and minor transitions can affect mental health, especially when they involve uncertainty, stress, grief, or changes in how a person sees themselves.

How do I know if I need therapy for a life transition?
Life transitions can bring up a wide range of emotions, and it is normal for someone to feel anxious, confused, stressed, sad, or emotionally unsteady. These reactions may be especially common in the weeks or months following a major change. However, if these feelings begin to interfere with daily life, relationships, sleep, work, or a person’s ability to care for themselves, it may be worth seeking support. A person does not need to wait until symptoms feel severe to ask for help; in fact, many people seek therapy proactively to prepare for a major life transition. For example, couples may see a therapist ahead of expecting their first child as a way to strengthen their relationship prior to becoming parents.

How can therapy help with life transitions?
Therapy can help you cope with both expected and unexpected life transitions by providing a space to process how a change is affecting your life, relationships, identity, or emotional well-being. For example, someone who has recently become a parent may use therapy to talk through changes in their identity, stress in their relationship, or feelings of overwhelm. A therapist can also help you make sense of what you are feeling, identify the root causes of stress, and develop coping strategies for managing the uncertainty that can come from major life changes.

What therapeutic approaches work best for life transitions?
The best therapeutic approach depends on what you are struggling with most. If intrusive thoughts or anxiety are the main concern, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help people identify painful thought patterns and develop coping strategies to manage them. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help people make space for painful emotions and accepting their circumstances while reconnecting with their values. For those navigating major relationship changes, couples or family counseling may be a good option. Lastly, for someone navigating career-related concerns, career counselors or coaches may be a good option. When considering what type of therapy may be best, consider the logistical components. For instance, CBT is often limited to a specified number of sessions, whereas more traditional talk therapy approaches can go on for years. In addition, consider whether you will be seeking online or in-person therapy; if you are in the process of moving or seeking a therapist for support around a topic that is not available in your immediate area, online therapy may be a good fit.

How do I find a therapist for life transition counseling?
The Psychology Today Therapist Directory allows people to search for therapists who specialize in life transitions. Use the “Specialties” filter and select “Life transitions” to find therapists who have indicated experience in life transitions. You may also select filters related to a specific transition, such as career counseling, divorce, grief, premarital counseling, or parenting. When comparing options, it is helpful to look for therapists whose profiles specifically mention experience with life transitions or specific types of transitions. Practical factors such as insurance, location, and online or in-person availability are also important. Once you have identified a few therapists who seem like a good fit, reach out to schedule an initial consultation.