Prolonged Exposure Therapy in Richmond, VA
Many LGBTQIA+ people spend years navigating complex relationships with their identities, bodies, and past experiences – trying to feel at home in themselves while carrying pain from trauma and present-day challenges. You might feel disconnected from yourself, your body, and others, stuck between how you think you should feel and how you actually feel. I believe that therapy should be an affirming, nonjudgmental space for healing – where you can build trust, safety, and compassion in your relationship with yourself and others and build a life filled with meaning and value based on what matters most to you.
Many LGBTQIA+ people spend years navigating complex relationships with their identities, bodies, and past experiences – trying to feel at home in themselves while carrying pain from trauma and present-day challenges. You might feel disconnected from yourself, your body, and others, stuck between how you think you should feel and how you actually feel. I believe that therapy should be an affirming, nonjudgmental space for healing – where you can build trust, safety, and compassion in your relationship with yourself and others and build a life filled with meaning and value based on what matters most to you.
I specialize in the treatment of OCD and anxiety using Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold-standard, evidence-based approach for OCD. OCD often shows up in ways that are misunderstood or hidden through intrusive thoughts, mental rituals, avoidance, or “not just right” feelings. Many people experience significant shame around these symptoms and worry about being judged or misunderstood. In this space, intrusive thoughts are understood as symptoms of OCD, not reflections of who you are. Nothing you share will be met with judgment or alarm.
I specialize in the treatment of OCD and anxiety using Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold-standard, evidence-based approach for OCD. OCD often shows up in ways that are misunderstood or hidden through intrusive thoughts, mental rituals, avoidance, or “not just right” feelings. Many people experience significant shame around these symptoms and worry about being judged or misunderstood. In this space, intrusive thoughts are understood as symptoms of OCD, not reflections of who you are. Nothing you share will be met with judgment or alarm.
When things don't go as planned, it can leave you feeling unsure how to get back on track. If you're finding it hard to be who you want to be for yourself and the people you care about while juggling all of your other life demands, I can help. Whether that means doing therapy one-on-one or therapy with your partner so you can tackle life's challenges as a team, I will help you understand why you are struggling and how to move forward in a way that feels good.
When things don't go as planned, it can leave you feeling unsure how to get back on track. If you're finding it hard to be who you want to be for yourself and the people you care about while juggling all of your other life demands, I can help. Whether that means doing therapy one-on-one or therapy with your partner so you can tackle life's challenges as a team, I will help you understand why you are struggling and how to move forward in a way that feels good.
Are you exhausted from masking what you're really experiencing? If so, you're not alone, and you're in the right place. I specialize in the assessment and treatment of adult ADHD and PTSD, two conditions that can be mentally and emotionally draining, particularly when they go unrecognized or misunderstood. If you're wondering whether either of these may apply to you, I offer comprehensive evaluations using screeners, in-depth clinical interviews, and a review of your school/occupational history to help bring clarity and direction.
Are you exhausted from masking what you're really experiencing? If so, you're not alone, and you're in the right place. I specialize in the assessment and treatment of adult ADHD and PTSD, two conditions that can be mentally and emotionally draining, particularly when they go unrecognized or misunderstood. If you're wondering whether either of these may apply to you, I offer comprehensive evaluations using screeners, in-depth clinical interviews, and a review of your school/occupational history to help bring clarity and direction.
I started my career as a forensic psychologist and for the past 18 years specialized in providing Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy for clients with PTSD and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with stress management interventions for anxiety and depression.
I am someone who has faced challenges, grown through them and learned the power of resilience firsthand. These experiences have shaped who I am and deepen the gratitude I feel for the opportunity to help others. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, tailored to each client's unique needs. I help clients understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while fostering self-awareness, resilience, and empowerment in a safe, supportive space. I am a clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience who utilizes evidenced based therapy to support meaningful and lasting change.
I started my career as a forensic psychologist and for the past 18 years specialized in providing Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy for clients with PTSD and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with stress management interventions for anxiety and depression.
I am someone who has faced challenges, grown through them and learned the power of resilience firsthand. These experiences have shaped who I am and deepen the gratitude I feel for the opportunity to help others. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, tailored to each client's unique needs. I help clients understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while fostering self-awareness, resilience, and empowerment in a safe, supportive space. I am a clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience who utilizes evidenced based therapy to support meaningful and lasting change.
Are anxiety and stress interfering in your life? I would like to help. I specialize in treating OCD (harm OCD, health OCD, relationship OCD, just right OCD, and more). I am also a trauma specialist and work with all forms of trauma and PTSD. I help people resolve their past trauma, invalidation, and unhelpful teachings/thinking processes so that they can leave their baggage behind and proceed as they wish into their relationships and life goals. I also treat depression, anxiety, panic, generalized worry, rumination, relationship issues, unhealthy coping behaviors, or even just managing every day stressors.
Are anxiety and stress interfering in your life? I would like to help. I specialize in treating OCD (harm OCD, health OCD, relationship OCD, just right OCD, and more). I am also a trauma specialist and work with all forms of trauma and PTSD. I help people resolve their past trauma, invalidation, and unhelpful teachings/thinking processes so that they can leave their baggage behind and proceed as they wish into their relationships and life goals. I also treat depression, anxiety, panic, generalized worry, rumination, relationship issues, unhealthy coping behaviors, or even just managing every day stressors.
Hello and welcome! I'm Jessica, a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Richmond, Virginia. I'm so glad you are here and considering next steps in caring for your mental health and well being. Maybe life’s transitions feel heavier than you thought they would, or maybe you’re carrying the weight of showing up for others and forgetting to care for yourself. You're not alone, and don't have to figure this out all at once. I'd like to help equip with the skills and confidence to build and live the life you desire. Together, we will create a treatment plan that is thoughtful, unhurried, and most importantly, yours.
Hello and welcome! I'm Jessica, a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Richmond, Virginia. I'm so glad you are here and considering next steps in caring for your mental health and well being. Maybe life’s transitions feel heavier than you thought they would, or maybe you’re carrying the weight of showing up for others and forgetting to care for yourself. You're not alone, and don't have to figure this out all at once. I'd like to help equip with the skills and confidence to build and live the life you desire. Together, we will create a treatment plan that is thoughtful, unhurried, and most importantly, yours.
Eating Disorders create suffering for those who experience them and everyone around. Finding a treatment team can be daunting task. As an ED Specialist I see my role as both educator orienting folks to the treatment process as well as treatment provider. As your therapist my work is to help you understand and work with emotion skillfully, so that maladaptive coping skills such as avoidance, aggression, disordered eating and self harm do not run roughshod over your life. As a meditator and experienced E-RYT 500 Yoga Teacher I can help you to find the present moment and put you back in your life, no matter the issue you face.
Eating Disorders create suffering for those who experience them and everyone around. Finding a treatment team can be daunting task. As an ED Specialist I see my role as both educator orienting folks to the treatment process as well as treatment provider. As your therapist my work is to help you understand and work with emotion skillfully, so that maladaptive coping skills such as avoidance, aggression, disordered eating and self harm do not run roughshod over your life. As a meditator and experienced E-RYT 500 Yoga Teacher I can help you to find the present moment and put you back in your life, no matter the issue you face.
On the surface, you may seem to have it all together, but inside, you feel overwhelmed, burned out, and stuck in an exhausting loop of overthinking and perfectionism. Perhaps the weight of anxiety, self-doubt, or past traumas is holding you back, and you are craving clarity and a sense of peace. You want to quiet the racing thoughts, set boundaries, and reconnect with what truly matters, but you feel unsure how to start. Sound familiar? Together, we can help you find relief, gain clarity, and create a life that feels aligned, fulfilling, and authentically yours.
On the surface, you may seem to have it all together, but inside, you feel overwhelmed, burned out, and stuck in an exhausting loop of overthinking and perfectionism. Perhaps the weight of anxiety, self-doubt, or past traumas is holding you back, and you are craving clarity and a sense of peace. You want to quiet the racing thoughts, set boundaries, and reconnect with what truly matters, but you feel unsure how to start. Sound familiar? Together, we can help you find relief, gain clarity, and create a life that feels aligned, fulfilling, and authentically yours.
Accepting new clients at Fernlight Therapy! I'm passionate about helping women and LGBTQ+ teens and adults navigating life changes, exploring identity, or seeking relief from anxiety, depression, and self-doubt. I believe therapy works best as a real partnership that can be direct, collaborative, and is rooted in trust. I'll laugh at your dark humor, stay focused on your goals, and create a space where you feel safe enough to show up as your full self. I'm not a blank slate just nodding along in session, I bring authenticity and genuinely engage with you while keeping us moving toward your goals.
Accepting new clients at Fernlight Therapy! I'm passionate about helping women and LGBTQ+ teens and adults navigating life changes, exploring identity, or seeking relief from anxiety, depression, and self-doubt. I believe therapy works best as a real partnership that can be direct, collaborative, and is rooted in trust. I'll laugh at your dark humor, stay focused on your goals, and create a space where you feel safe enough to show up as your full self. I'm not a blank slate just nodding along in session, I bring authenticity and genuinely engage with you while keeping us moving toward your goals.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, in private practice, working with clients who have suffered loss, anxiety, depression and trauma. I provide individual therapy to adults ages 18+. My goal is to partner with you while disbanding the stigmas of mental health and normalizing that it’s “OK, to not be OK”. I feel that It is paramount to provide a safe space to be your authentic self while you walk on your journey to transformation and healing. I believe in meeting you where you are, because it is your life, and your story. I am only here to help you make it to your next chapters.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, in private practice, working with clients who have suffered loss, anxiety, depression and trauma. I provide individual therapy to adults ages 18+. My goal is to partner with you while disbanding the stigmas of mental health and normalizing that it’s “OK, to not be OK”. I feel that It is paramount to provide a safe space to be your authentic self while you walk on your journey to transformation and healing. I believe in meeting you where you are, because it is your life, and your story. I am only here to help you make it to your next chapters.
Taking the first step toward therapy is a courageous act. I provide a safe, supportive space for individuals, couples, and families from all backgrounds to explore their mental health needs. My approach is eclectic and evidence-based, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and trauma-informed care to help address anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship challenges, and more.
Together, we’ll create a path toward healing and growth that honors your identity, values, and goals. We all face challenges at some point, but you don’t have to face them alone.
Taking the first step toward therapy is a courageous act. I provide a safe, supportive space for individuals, couples, and families from all backgrounds to explore their mental health needs. My approach is eclectic and evidence-based, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and trauma-informed care to help address anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship challenges, and more.
Together, we’ll create a path toward healing and growth that honors your identity, values, and goals. We all face challenges at some point, but you don’t have to face them alone.
I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ and Gender-Diverse individuals, women, veterans, and adults across the lifespan. Whether you're navigating trauma, anxiety, identity exploration, life transitions, relationship challenges, grief, or questions about what comes next, I provide an affirming, compassionate space to help you heal, grow, and reconnect with yourself.
I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ and Gender-Diverse individuals, women, veterans, and adults across the lifespan. Whether you're navigating trauma, anxiety, identity exploration, life transitions, relationship challenges, grief, or questions about what comes next, I provide an affirming, compassionate space to help you heal, grow, and reconnect with yourself.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety and/or depression? Do feel like your life is out of control due to obsessions with food, alcohol or drugs? Do you have unwanted behaviors that you cannot seem to change? I believe that we all have the ability to heal from emotional pain and suffering and that we sometimes need a little help to do so. Through a variety of techniques, I can help you can adjust thought processes, decrease the intensity of emotions, change behaviors, learn new skills and begin to experience a sense of peace and balance in your life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety and/or depression? Do feel like your life is out of control due to obsessions with food, alcohol or drugs? Do you have unwanted behaviors that you cannot seem to change? I believe that we all have the ability to heal from emotional pain and suffering and that we sometimes need a little help to do so. Through a variety of techniques, I can help you can adjust thought processes, decrease the intensity of emotions, change behaviors, learn new skills and begin to experience a sense of peace and balance in your life.
Many clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from what matters most in their lives. They may feel trapped in cycles of self-doubt, stress, or patterns that no longer serve them. In our work, I focus on helping you clarify your values, face difficult thoughts and emotions without getting lost in them, and take steps toward meaningful change. I balance listening with active guidance, so therapy feels both supportive and purposeful. My goal is to help you move beyond simply coping and begin building a life that feels authentic, resilient, and aligned with who you want to be.
Many clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from what matters most in their lives. They may feel trapped in cycles of self-doubt, stress, or patterns that no longer serve them. In our work, I focus on helping you clarify your values, face difficult thoughts and emotions without getting lost in them, and take steps toward meaningful change. I balance listening with active guidance, so therapy feels both supportive and purposeful. My goal is to help you move beyond simply coping and begin building a life that feels authentic, resilient, and aligned with who you want to be.
As a psychologist there is nothing I love more than helping people who are ready to learn new ways of coping to make meaningful changes in their lives! I have three areas of expertise. I provide private, specialized, and personalized Cognitive-Behavioral and Mindfulness-Based therapies for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and PTSD. I am passionate about working with LGBTQ+ adults in therapy to create an affirming, therapeutic space for working on LGBTQ+ specific or general mental health concerns, such as anxiety or depression. I love helping transgender adults develop a healthy, positive identity as a trans person and navigate transition.
As a psychologist there is nothing I love more than helping people who are ready to learn new ways of coping to make meaningful changes in their lives! I have three areas of expertise. I provide private, specialized, and personalized Cognitive-Behavioral and Mindfulness-Based therapies for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and PTSD. I am passionate about working with LGBTQ+ adults in therapy to create an affirming, therapeutic space for working on LGBTQ+ specific or general mental health concerns, such as anxiety or depression. I love helping transgender adults develop a healthy, positive identity as a trans person and navigate transition.
I am passionate about working with clients who need intensive help with complex and challenging situations, especially those who have been marginalized or invalidated by previous attempts at treatment. My focus is on helping people who have experienced trauma, substance abuse, personality disorders, OCD, anxiety, panic attacks and other severe mental health conditions. I have experience in a wide variety of environments from private practice to inpatient hospitals and rehab facilities with people like veterans, unhoused people, incarcerated people and program/troubled teen industry survivors, as well as anyone who needs help
I am passionate about working with clients who need intensive help with complex and challenging situations, especially those who have been marginalized or invalidated by previous attempts at treatment. My focus is on helping people who have experienced trauma, substance abuse, personality disorders, OCD, anxiety, panic attacks and other severe mental health conditions. I have experience in a wide variety of environments from private practice to inpatient hospitals and rehab facilities with people like veterans, unhoused people, incarcerated people and program/troubled teen industry survivors, as well as anyone who needs help
As a collaborative therapist, my focus is on meeting the client where they are and helping them identify goals in treatment that will allow them to achieve optimum functioning in their lives. I have had experience in a variety of treatment settings which allows me to work with clients presenting with an array of issues including, but not limited to: anxiety and mood disorders, OCD, substance abuse, Trauma and PTSD, life transitions, existential crisis, exploring spirituality, grief and loss, low self-image, and health concerns. I also enjoy working with individuals looking to find meaning and a sense of connection in their lives.
As a collaborative therapist, my focus is on meeting the client where they are and helping them identify goals in treatment that will allow them to achieve optimum functioning in their lives. I have had experience in a variety of treatment settings which allows me to work with clients presenting with an array of issues including, but not limited to: anxiety and mood disorders, OCD, substance abuse, Trauma and PTSD, life transitions, existential crisis, exploring spirituality, grief and loss, low self-image, and health concerns. I also enjoy working with individuals looking to find meaning and a sense of connection in their lives.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just not like yourself? Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, past trauma, depression, or life transitions, you're not alone—and healing is possible. I specialize in working with adults, children and teens to create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your challenges, gain clarity, and begin to move forward with confidence and purpose.
As a licensed therapist, professor, and community mental health advocate, I bring over a decade of experience helping individuals navigate life’s most difficult moments.
I offer in-person and virtual sessions to meet you where you are.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just not like yourself? Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, past trauma, depression, or life transitions, you're not alone—and healing is possible. I specialize in working with adults, children and teens to create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your challenges, gain clarity, and begin to move forward with confidence and purpose.
As a licensed therapist, professor, and community mental health advocate, I bring over a decade of experience helping individuals navigate life’s most difficult moments.
I offer in-person and virtual sessions to meet you where you are.
I could throw a lot of buzzwords at you about holistic care, mindfulness, and wellness but you've likely read enough of that by the time you've gotten here. So I'd rather be honest: In a world that feels so unauthentic right now, I strive to provide a space where you can speak freely and process what is going on with you and around you. I am a firm believer everyone is the master of their own experience, and therapy can be used as a tool to focus on changes you want to make and help you cope with it all. My goal is for you to show up each session willing to dive deep and make those shifts.
I could throw a lot of buzzwords at you about holistic care, mindfulness, and wellness but you've likely read enough of that by the time you've gotten here. So I'd rather be honest: In a world that feels so unauthentic right now, I strive to provide a space where you can speak freely and process what is going on with you and around you. I am a firm believer everyone is the master of their own experience, and therapy can be used as a tool to focus on changes you want to make and help you cope with it all. My goal is for you to show up each session willing to dive deep and make those shifts.
