First Responders Therapists in Charlottesville, VA

Photo of Marlene Paxton, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marlene Paxton
Pre-Licensed Professional
2 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22901
I support medical professionals, family caregivers, veterans, and first responders facing stress, trauma, and demanding roles.
I integrate Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and solution-focused tools. We’ll build coping strategies for stress, boundary clarity, values-based action, and emotional regulation that adapt to unpredictable schedules and high-stakes roles. Walk-and-talk is an option for clients who prefer processing while moving.
I support medical professionals, family caregivers, veterans, and first responders facing stress, trauma, and demanding roles.
I integrate Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and solution-focused tools. We’ll build coping strategies for stress, boundary clarity, values-based action, and emotional regulation that adapt to unpredictable schedules and high-stakes roles. Walk-and-talk is an option for clients who prefer processing while moving.
(434) 218-3231 View (434) 218-3231
Photo of Brooklyn Sites, Licensed Professional Counselor, CCTP, NRAEMT
Brooklyn Sites
Licensed Professional Counselor, CCTP, NRAEMT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Using trauma-informed approaches, I help first responders and others manage anxiety, depression, grief, and emotional overwhelm through no-nonsense tools.
You’re used to pushing through—holding it together while life, work, or the job keeps demanding more. Maybe you’re burned out, anxious, or carrying what you’ve seen and can’t talk about. You want to feel in control again but don’t know where to start. Whether you’re a first responder, healthcare worker, or someone living a high-stress life, you’re ready for calm, clarity, and strength that lasts. Together, we’ll cut through the noise, rebuild your foundation, and get you back to feeling steady, focused, and capable.
Using trauma-informed approaches, I help first responders and others manage anxiety, depression, grief, and emotional overwhelm through no-nonsense tools.
You’re used to pushing through—holding it together while life, work, or the job keeps demanding more. Maybe you’re burned out, anxious, or carrying what you’ve seen and can’t talk about. You want to feel in control again but don’t know where to start. Whether you’re a first responder, healthcare worker, or someone living a high-stress life, you’re ready for calm, clarity, and strength that lasts. Together, we’ll cut through the noise, rebuild your foundation, and get you back to feeling steady, focused, and capable.
(540) 416-1133 View (540) 416-1133
Photo of Rosemary Cosselmon, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Rosemary Cosselmon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Looking for a therapist who truly sees and supports you? I’m Rosemary, a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 15+ years of experience working with teens to seniors. I focus on building a strong, respectful relationship where you feel empowered to use your strengths, grow through challenges, and work toward the life you want. Let’s take that next step—together.
Looking for a therapist who truly sees and supports you? I’m Rosemary, a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 15+ years of experience working with teens to seniors. I focus on building a strong, respectful relationship where you feel empowered to use your strengths, grow through challenges, and work toward the life you want. Let’s take that next step—together.
(434) 280-3533 View (434) 280-3533
Photo of Emily Wright, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Emily Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Looking to make meaningful, lasting changes in your life? I’m Emily, and I work with adults and adolescents to create a supportive, trauma-informed space. I focus on building a strong therapeutic alliance and understanding you fully—your experiences, culture, and goals. Using a variety of inclusive techniques, together we’ll explore challenges, develop practical strategies, and work toward growth, balance, and lasting positive change.
Looking to make meaningful, lasting changes in your life? I’m Emily, and I work with adults and adolescents to create a supportive, trauma-informed space. I focus on building a strong therapeutic alliance and understanding you fully—your experiences, culture, and goals. Using a variety of inclusive techniques, together we’ll explore challenges, develop practical strategies, and work toward growth, balance, and lasting positive change.
(804) 531-6104 View (804) 531-6104
Photo of Cathy Roessler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cathy Roessler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22902
Waitlist for new clients
If you've been feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns you can't quite explain, you're not alone - and you don't have to figure it out by yourself. Perhaps you're pursuing therapy due to feeling exhausted from holding it all together, wondering why certain feelings keep resurfacing despite your best efforts, or feeling unsteady during periods of growth, transition or loss. Finding a therapist can feel overwhelming, especially when you're already dealing with anxiety, stress, or the impact of past experiences. My goal is to offer you a space where you feel genuinely heard, respected, and supported, just as you are.
If you've been feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns you can't quite explain, you're not alone - and you don't have to figure it out by yourself. Perhaps you're pursuing therapy due to feeling exhausted from holding it all together, wondering why certain feelings keep resurfacing despite your best efforts, or feeling unsteady during periods of growth, transition or loss. Finding a therapist can feel overwhelming, especially when you're already dealing with anxiety, stress, or the impact of past experiences. My goal is to offer you a space where you feel genuinely heard, respected, and supported, just as you are.
(434) 278-7585 View (434) 278-7585
Photo of Leiah Aleksich, Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Leiah Aleksich
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Feeling unsure about who you are or struggling with life changes? I’m Leiah Aleksich, a social work supervisee with experience supporting adolescents and young adults. I create a comfortable space to explore emotions, thoughts, and triggers, helping you develop coping skills tailored to you. Together, we’ll work on self-discovery, managing depression, boosting motivation, and building a brighter, more confident future. Therapy is about your journey, and I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way.
Feeling unsure about who you are or struggling with life changes? I’m Leiah Aleksich, a social work supervisee with experience supporting adolescents and young adults. I create a comfortable space to explore emotions, thoughts, and triggers, helping you develop coping skills tailored to you. Together, we’ll work on self-discovery, managing depression, boosting motivation, and building a brighter, more confident future. Therapy is about your journey, and I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way.
(434) 322-7470 View (434) 322-7470
Photo of Jenni Hammack, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Jenni Hammack
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
What if therapy actually felt like talking to someone who gets it? Not awkward silences. Not repeating your story for the tenth time. Not feeling like a case file. Just a real conversation with someone in your corner. That's what I try to create. I work with people who've had a hard time connecting in therapy, whether you tend to shut down, don't trust easily, or just haven't found the right fit. My clients often say they're surprised how comfortable they feel, and how fast the time goes. That's not an accident. I believe the relationship is the foundation. Everything else builds from there.
What if therapy actually felt like talking to someone who gets it? Not awkward silences. Not repeating your story for the tenth time. Not feeling like a case file. Just a real conversation with someone in your corner. That's what I try to create. I work with people who've had a hard time connecting in therapy, whether you tend to shut down, don't trust easily, or just haven't found the right fit. My clients often say they're surprised how comfortable they feel, and how fast the time goes. That's not an accident. I believe the relationship is the foundation. Everything else builds from there.
(434) 216-7858 View (434) 216-7858
Photo of Alexis Schneider, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alexis Schneider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Rooted in a love of community and new experiences, Alexis brings curiosity and balance to both her personal and professional life. Born in Jacksonville, North Carolina, and raised in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Alexis has lived in Mount Holly, New Jersey, Augusta, Georgia, and now Washington, DC, alongside her husband of four years, who is active duty in the United States Air Force.
Rooted in a love of community and new experiences, Alexis brings curiosity and balance to both her personal and professional life. Born in Jacksonville, North Carolina, and raised in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Alexis has lived in Mount Holly, New Jersey, Augusta, Georgia, and now Washington, DC, alongside her husband of four years, who is active duty in the United States Air Force.
(434) 686-6102 View (434) 686-6102
Photo of Luke Korfonta, Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-R
Luke Korfonta
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-R
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Luke believes that true healing happens when we face life’s challenges with both honesty and compassion. As a Resident Counselor working toward his LPC and holding a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Luke brings this philosophy into every session. Certified in SYMBIS and trained in Gottman Level 1, he specializes in helping individuals and couples navigate relationship and communication struggles, self-worth and identity concerns, depression, grief, sports-related challenges, and spiritual matters. His goal is to create a safe, intentional space where clients feel supported and empowered to grow.
Luke believes that true healing happens when we face life’s challenges with both honesty and compassion. As a Resident Counselor working toward his LPC and holding a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Luke brings this philosophy into every session. Certified in SYMBIS and trained in Gottman Level 1, he specializes in helping individuals and couples navigate relationship and communication struggles, self-worth and identity concerns, depression, grief, sports-related challenges, and spiritual matters. His goal is to create a safe, intentional space where clients feel supported and empowered to grow.
(434) 253-4135 View (434) 253-4135
Photo of Nailah K Alston-Iszard, Resident in Counseling
Nailah K Alston-Iszard
Resident in Counseling
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself? I support individuals navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, discrimination, life transitions, and challenges with self-worth, relationships, and identity. My approach blends psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and humanistic techniques to help clients understand the roots of their struggles and build a stronger, more empowered sense of self. I am currently pursuing my doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Fielding Graduate University. I believe therapy is not just about surviving life’s storms—but learning how to dance in the rain.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself? I support individuals navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, discrimination, life transitions, and challenges with self-worth, relationships, and identity. My approach blends psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and humanistic techniques to help clients understand the roots of their struggles and build a stronger, more empowered sense of self. I am currently pursuing my doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Fielding Graduate University. I believe therapy is not just about surviving life’s storms—but learning how to dance in the rain.
(434) 448-3996 View (434) 448-3996
Photo of Beverly Morgan-Fullilove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Beverly Morgan-Fullilove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Feeling overwhelmed? You don’t have to face it alone. I'm Beverly Morgan-Fullilove, a licensed clinical social worker with 40+ years of experience helping people navigate stress, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm. My approach blends mindfulness, meditation, and CBT to support healing for your mind, body, and spirit. Whether you're facing relationship struggles or emotional burnout, I offer a safe, compassionate space to grow. Let’s work together to build the tools you need to feel more in control and at peace.
Feeling overwhelmed? You don’t have to face it alone. I'm Beverly Morgan-Fullilove, a licensed clinical social worker with 40+ years of experience helping people navigate stress, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm. My approach blends mindfulness, meditation, and CBT to support healing for your mind, body, and spirit. Whether you're facing relationship struggles or emotional burnout, I offer a safe, compassionate space to grow. Let’s work together to build the tools you need to feel more in control and at peace.
(434) 813-6210 View (434) 813-6210
Photo of Michelle Shifflett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Michelle Shifflett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22902
Welcome - I'm Michelle. I’m a licensed therapist who supports adults who are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, or long-standing relational patterns that no longer feel manageable. Many of the individuals I work with are highly capable, thoughtful, and resilient — yet find themselves feeling stuck, emotionally reactive, disconnected from their bodies, or unsure why certain relationships or situations feel so activating.
Welcome - I'm Michelle. I’m a licensed therapist who supports adults who are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, or long-standing relational patterns that no longer feel manageable. Many of the individuals I work with are highly capable, thoughtful, and resilient — yet find themselves feeling stuck, emotionally reactive, disconnected from their bodies, or unsure why certain relationships or situations feel so activating.
(434) 595-4320 View (434) 595-4320
Photo of Renee Miller, Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT
Renee Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT
Online Only
I am a Resident in Counseling with a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I offer a unique perspective with an extensive and varied background from my 28-year career in the United States Air Force in fighter aircraft maintenance. I am trained in Trauma-Focused CBT, and other strengths-based modalities such as DBT, person-centered, and solution-focused therapies. I enjoy multi-dimensional approaches to treatment founded on evidence-based practices tailored to each client’s individual needs.
I am a Resident in Counseling with a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I offer a unique perspective with an extensive and varied background from my 28-year career in the United States Air Force in fighter aircraft maintenance. I am trained in Trauma-Focused CBT, and other strengths-based modalities such as DBT, person-centered, and solution-focused therapies. I enjoy multi-dimensional approaches to treatment founded on evidence-based practices tailored to each client’s individual needs.
(434) 830-5986 View (434) 830-5986
Photo of Sydney Beasley, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Sydney Beasley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Navigating grief, past trauma, or life transitions can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to face it alone. I’m a Virginia-licensed professional counselor with a Master’s from Eastern Kentucky University. I specialize in supporting adults with a history of childhood abuse or neglect, those coping with grief, and individuals transitioning to independent living. My training as a death doula deepens my compassionate, understanding approach, helping you feel seen, supported, and empowered on your journey.
Navigating grief, past trauma, or life transitions can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to face it alone. I’m a Virginia-licensed professional counselor with a Master’s from Eastern Kentucky University. I specialize in supporting adults with a history of childhood abuse or neglect, those coping with grief, and individuals transitioning to independent living. My training as a death doula deepens my compassionate, understanding approach, helping you feel seen, supported, and empowered on your journey.
(434) 278-7538 View (434) 278-7538
Photo of Bryon Scholl, Resident in Counseling
Bryon Scholl
Resident in Counseling
Charlottesville, VA 22901
When genuine support is paired with a belief in your potential, real and lasting change can take shape. Bryon is a full-time professional School Counselor and a part-time Resident in Counseling. With six years of experience working with individuals and families in school settings, he brings a strong foundation in supporting growth, resilience, and life transitions. As of 2025, Bryon marked an exciting new chapter, as he is expanded his work beyond public education to support individuals seeking greater clarity, confidence, and direction in their lives.
When genuine support is paired with a belief in your potential, real and lasting change can take shape. Bryon is a full-time professional School Counselor and a part-time Resident in Counseling. With six years of experience working with individuals and families in school settings, he brings a strong foundation in supporting growth, resilience, and life transitions. As of 2025, Bryon marked an exciting new chapter, as he is expanded his work beyond public education to support individuals seeking greater clarity, confidence, and direction in their lives.
(434) 204-9854 View (434) 204-9854
Photo of Sabrina Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Sabrina Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Seeking a clinician who combines experience, compassion, and practical support for life’s challenges? Meet Sabrina. Sabrina is an experienced clinician who has worked in residential, inpatient, and intensive outpatient settings. She supports individuals facing a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, substance use concerns, and major life transitions.
Seeking a clinician who combines experience, compassion, and practical support for life’s challenges? Meet Sabrina. Sabrina is an experienced clinician who has worked in residential, inpatient, and intensive outpatient settings. She supports individuals facing a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, substance use concerns, and major life transitions.
(434) 331-9305 View (434) 331-9305
Photo of Tim Rambo, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Tim Rambo
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Charlottesville, VA 22903
I help individuals find desired change, relief, and insight by increasing understanding and awareness of their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I teach practical coping skills and guide clients in reprocessing distressing experiences and memories. With a mindfulness and strength-based approach, one technique I offer, as needed, is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing). Through this work together, you'll connect more with your inner, positive voice and truths, and decrease automatic behaviors and thoughts that make "small" issues feel overwhelming, that cause "freezing" or fighting. This results in more comfort with yourself and more confidence with other people or situations.
I help individuals find desired change, relief, and insight by increasing understanding and awareness of their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I teach practical coping skills and guide clients in reprocessing distressing experiences and memories. With a mindfulness and strength-based approach, one technique I offer, as needed, is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing). Through this work together, you'll connect more with your inner, positive voice and truths, and decrease automatic behaviors and thoughts that make "small" issues feel overwhelming, that cause "freezing" or fighting. This results in more comfort with yourself and more confidence with other people or situations.
(434) 253-4154 View (434) 253-4154
Photo of Keshia Ingram, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Keshia Ingram
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges? I’m Keshia Slack-Ingram, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20 years of experience helping adults and couples navigate life transitions and emotional challenges. I blend compassion, insight, and evidence-based techniques to support your growth and well-being. Together, we’ll create a safe space to explore your goals, build coping skills, and move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges? I’m Keshia Slack-Ingram, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20 years of experience helping adults and couples navigate life transitions and emotional challenges. I blend compassion, insight, and evidence-based techniques to support your growth and well-being. Together, we’ll create a safe space to explore your goals, build coping skills, and move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
(434) 597-3405 View (434) 597-3405
Photo of Leah Gear, Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-A
Leah Gear
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-A
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Life can be challenging, but support is here. I’m Leah, a therapist who brings compassion, warmth, and authenticity to every session. I work with clients of all ages, creating a safe space where you feel heard, valued, and empowered to navigate life’s ups and downs. I believe in fostering connection, joy, and personal growth throughout the therapeutic journey. To make support accessible and flexible, I offer virtual sessions so you can receive care from the comfort of your own space.
Life can be challenging, but support is here. I’m Leah, a therapist who brings compassion, warmth, and authenticity to every session. I work with clients of all ages, creating a safe space where you feel heard, valued, and empowered to navigate life’s ups and downs. I believe in fostering connection, joy, and personal growth throughout the therapeutic journey. To make support accessible and flexible, I offer virtual sessions so you can receive care from the comfort of your own space.
(434) 478-1445 View (434) 478-1445
Photo of Alexandra Berger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alexandra Berger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Taking the step to seek therapy takes courage—and you deserve recognition for prioritizing your mental health. I’m Alex Johnson (she/her), LCSW, with a Bachelors from Oberlin College and a Masters in Social Work from Columbia University. With over four years of experience in inpatient, outpatient, and crisis settings, I support clients facing substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, and other mental health challenges. I provide a safe, supportive space to heal, grow, and navigate life’s challenges together.
Taking the step to seek therapy takes courage—and you deserve recognition for prioritizing your mental health. I’m Alex Johnson (she/her), LCSW, with a Bachelors from Oberlin College and a Masters in Social Work from Columbia University. With over four years of experience in inpatient, outpatient, and crisis settings, I support clients facing substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, and other mental health challenges. I provide a safe, supportive space to heal, grow, and navigate life’s challenges together.
(540) 781-0210 View (540) 781-0210

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First Responders Therapists
Why is mental health important for first responders?
As part of their work, first responders are often exposed to high levels of stress, trauma, and physical injury that can put them at a greater risk for serious mental health conditions than the general population. Conditions like PTSD, anxiety, substance use, and depression are more common in first responders, which can greatly reduce quality of life and lead to burnout, sleep disruption, and even suicidal thoughts. Therapy can offer an opportunity for first responders to process difficult on-the-job experiences and develop coping skills to better manage any mental health symptoms they may experience.

How can first responders get access to mental health support?
Many first responders can access therapy for free or at a very low cost through their employer, such as through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Workplaces may also offer or have referral recommendations for support groups, where first responders can meet with others in their profession to receive support. Individuals who would like to access mental health services outside of their employer may use their insurance benefits to see a therapist, which they can find by searching for therapists online or asking for recommendations from their primary care physician.

What type of therapy is best for first responders?
The best therapy approach depends on the mental health concerns of the client. Since many first responders struggle with trauma or PTSD, they may benefit from trauma-specific therapeutic approaches, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Exposure Therapy, or Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). Individuals with symptoms of anxiety, depression, or stress may alternatively benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or mindfulness-based therapeutic approaches, which can help clients develop coping skills to manage distressing thoughts.

Can therapy for first responders help with trauma and PTSD?
Therapy can be highly effective in both treating and preventing trauma and PTSD in first responders. Typically, therapy for trauma and PTSD focuses on developing stress management skills and managing intrusive or unwanted thoughts. Therapists working with first responders often help clients strengthen their relationships and reduce harmful coping mechanisms, such as excessive substance use. Additionally, therapists assist first responders in establishing daily habits that support overall mental and physical health and enhance resilience to future stress, such as regular physical exercise, mindfulness practices, and improved eating habits.