Grief Therapists in Harrisonburg, VA

I am an experienced clinical social worker who is passionate about helping people improve their overall functioning by learning how to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression and cope with the transitions in life. I have valuable insight into treating individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, end of life or life transitions, grief or loss , disordered eating and eating disorders, and current or previous trauma. I am a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider, and I am also a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional.

In my work I make deep connections with people as we meet and talk honestly. Each person who meets with me seeks to find meaning and purpose in life. Part of this process is helping the unconscious and the conscious talk to each other because many of our inner conflicts, i.e. fights with ourselves, come from a lack of communication between the conscious and unconscious. A part of the work is exploring what lies in shadow. This is not just repressed, ugly stuff. For many folks untapped gifts and potential lie in the unknown parts of themselves.

Making a decision to start therapy changes your life. Whether you are facing challenges, coping with depression, grieving over the loss of a loved one or going through a transition, therapy can help. Therapy is time set aside just for you and your inner struggles. Our society sets you up to focus on everything except your sense of peace and emotional wellness. Meeting with a counselor allows you to grow, heal and regain a sense of well-being.

My specialty is creating a safe space and opportunities for reducing stress and anxiety, rediscovering your inner resilience and joy, and healing unresolved pain from the past so that you can live more fully in the present. Through a collaborative online therapy process, my goal is to help you to cope with the unique stressors you face, to recover from daily stressors, unresolved tension or loss , and to experience your world and relationships with joy, fulfillment, and intention. I have helped undergraduate students, law students, professors, medical professionals, and community members seeking to reduce stress and relieve tension.

Life often has its ups and downs. I provide a safe, affirming, compassionate, and non-judgmental space, where we can fully honor your experiences and personhood, and where you can take the steps toward self-exploration, discovery, self-compassion, and growth. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, grief , interpersonal concerns, relationship challenges in couples, and depression. I frequently work with individuals on issues relating to multi-cultural diversity, LGBTQIA+ identities and experiences, and life transitions.

If you are trying to manage intrusive worries, sadness, or grief , it's possible your body and mind may be signaling a need for greater attention and care. Often this is our soul's way of asking for a deeper connection to ourselves and others. Reaching out for support requires courage and some willingness to be vulnerable. If you are ready, we will begin by developing a secure foundation based on identifying and honoring your strengths and resilience before exploring difficult topics. We will take an approach that includes a somatic awareness which invites you to notice what's rising inside your body, not just your mind.

Life can be challenging. Whether we’re falling apart, experiencing minor setbacks or even doing relatively well, it can be really helpful to have someone to talk to. I hold a strong conviction that there is no issue too big or small to justify seeing a therapist.

Accepting New Clients. Please e-mail for appointment. I offer HIPPA compliant online video counseling sessions. I have a great affinity for working with clients who are suffering with grief and loss issues such as a death or loss of a relationship. Depression, anxiety and adjustment issues are areas in which I have extensive experience. Women's issues are another area in which I work. I enjoy working with active duty military members, their families and veterans. Adult Children of Alcoholics is another specialty area. I also offer supervision for LPC licensure (Board Approved).

For some people, the notion of therapy can be daunting. My goal is to provide a therapeutic environment that is safe, encouraging, compassionate, and creative. I understand that change can be difficult and my role is to support you in our work together. We will collaborate on setting and achieving goals to help you address life's challenges. I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker with 25 years of diverse work experiences.

I have worked at James Madison University as a mental health counselor in their Counseling Center for over two decades part-time, as I have raised my children. I love my work and am passionate about the way counseling can improve lives! Now that my youngest daughter is in high school, I am looking forward to growing a private practice in addition to my work at JMU. I am excited to see any client who wants to grow as a person or learn to cope with life's challenges. I love to engage in both individual counseling and couple's counseling.

Currently Accepting New Telehealth Clients! Welcome, I am Dr. Paul Pohto. I offer specialized therapy services that lend support, guidance, and direction for when life may have you feeling stuck and overwhelmed. I strive to offer affirming and supportive therapeutic services to the Harrisonburg community and Shenandoah Valley. My approach to counseling is rooted in a warm and strong therapeutic bond. A good therapeutic fit allows for aligning on client goals and getting you closer to where you want to be.

Are you, your child, or your family struggling? The holidays and the winter season are hard for many people, and now is the perfect time to reach out for the support you need. I help individuals and families that are overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety, anger, and depression. Adults and children with a history of trauma, unhealthy relationship patterns, or family issues also commonly come to see me. I am available for in-person or telehealth appointments. Currently, the latest timeslots that I have available are 3-4pm, thought I have plenty of daytime slots available.

As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I work with individuals who are seeking a calm and safe environment to become more self-aware and find healing. I believe that when given the right tools in an environment built on mutual respect and nurturing, every person can move toward growth. I have experience working with individuals of all ages on struggles with depression, anxiety, grief , women's issues and those who have experienced trauma or overwhelming events.

I work with a diverse range of people who are seeking healing or relief from emotional pain. My favorite part of this process is working with art and dreams to uncover hidden issues and blocks, to begin again to lead a full and happy life. A part of the work is uncovering the shadow and connecting the conscious with the unconscious, where not just difficult parts hide, but gifts and creativity. In a typical work week I talk with people dealing with mood disorder, depression, anxiety, feeling stuck, grief , trauma, and interpersonal issues.