Schema Therapy in Richmond, VA
I use EMDR, ACT, Relational and Schema Therapy to address anxiety, depression, PTSD, and life challenges.
Many of my clients are adults navigating chronic illness, intense emotions, or painful relationship dynamics. They may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to begin—but they want to feel more grounded, connected, and in control of their lives. Some are dealing with borderline personality disorders or trying to understand a loved one who is. Others are coping with emotional burnout, sleep issues, or the weight of long-term stress. What they all share is a desire to feel more stable, understood, and equipped with practical tools to move forward. My clients report finding this in treatment with me (along with some humor).
I use EMDR, ACT, Relational and Schema Therapy to address anxiety, depression, PTSD, and life challenges.
Many of my clients are adults navigating chronic illness, intense emotions, or painful relationship dynamics. They may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to begin—but they want to feel more grounded, connected, and in control of their lives. Some are dealing with borderline personality disorders or trying to understand a loved one who is. Others are coping with emotional burnout, sleep issues, or the weight of long-term stress. What they all share is a desire to feel more stable, understood, and equipped with practical tools to move forward. My clients report finding this in treatment with me (along with some humor).
Hi there, I'm Keli! Beginning therapy with someone new can feel a little scary, and I'm happy that you're here. I've walked beside teens and adults as they've worked through anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma. I offer a space where you can exhale—where you can feel seen, accepted, and supported just as you are. I offer gentle, transformational therapy tailored to your needs. We'll uncover the thought patterns that cause unhelpful emotions and behaviors that keep you stuck. We'll help you to heal and move toward a more peaceful life. Together, we'll take things one step at a time, creating real and lasting change.
Hi there, I'm Keli! Beginning therapy with someone new can feel a little scary, and I'm happy that you're here. I've walked beside teens and adults as they've worked through anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma. I offer a space where you can exhale—where you can feel seen, accepted, and supported just as you are. I offer gentle, transformational therapy tailored to your needs. We'll uncover the thought patterns that cause unhelpful emotions and behaviors that keep you stuck. We'll help you to heal and move toward a more peaceful life. Together, we'll take things one step at a time, creating real and lasting change.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to begin, therapy can help. Starting therapy can feel intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be stiff or judgmental. I offer a supportive, grounded space where you can be honest, ask hard questions, and focus on changes that actually show up in daily life. Clients often describe me as compassionate, honest, and refreshingly straightforward. My work is collaborative and practical, focused on helping you gain clarity, build skills, and feel more confident navigating life's challenges. I believe therapy works best when it’s real, respectful, and occasionally allows room for humor.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to begin, therapy can help. Starting therapy can feel intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be stiff or judgmental. I offer a supportive, grounded space where you can be honest, ask hard questions, and focus on changes that actually show up in daily life. Clients often describe me as compassionate, honest, and refreshingly straightforward. My work is collaborative and practical, focused on helping you gain clarity, build skills, and feel more confident navigating life's challenges. I believe therapy works best when it’s real, respectful, and occasionally allows room for humor.
Rebecca Kaderli
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP, NCC, ACS, C-DBT
4 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23226
Welcome couples and singles! Imediate openings. Facing loneliness, depression, anger, infidelity, lack of desire, conflict, or divorce? Counseling helps. I treat adults with a variety of symptoms, am a mid-life specialist, couples counselor, and Certified Sex Therapy Informed Treatment Professional. It has been my honor to study with Master Therapist Demetrios Peratsakis, teach at VCU, and to be a past president of the Virginia Counselors Association. Whether navigating mood or anxiety, empty nesting, hormonal shifts, or fading passion, I help men and women revive confidence, purpose, and vitality. You are worth the investment.
Welcome couples and singles! Imediate openings. Facing loneliness, depression, anger, infidelity, lack of desire, conflict, or divorce? Counseling helps. I treat adults with a variety of symptoms, am a mid-life specialist, couples counselor, and Certified Sex Therapy Informed Treatment Professional. It has been my honor to study with Master Therapist Demetrios Peratsakis, teach at VCU, and to be a past president of the Virginia Counselors Association. Whether navigating mood or anxiety, empty nesting, hormonal shifts, or fading passion, I help men and women revive confidence, purpose, and vitality. You are worth the investment.
My experiences and strengths: group therapy, substance use and co-occurring disorders, trauma, men’s issues, depression, mood disorders like bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, biblical/faith-based counseling, career/life changes, & anger management. My approach is integrative; however, I use and apply the theoretical approach that best suits you, the person. With that said, everything and anything I have and utilize, starts and ends with the gracious empowerment of a biblically based approach: an inside/outside job. Without The Lord leading & guiding me, I can do nothing. One of my mottos: “If it causes a problem, it IS a problem.
My experiences and strengths: group therapy, substance use and co-occurring disorders, trauma, men’s issues, depression, mood disorders like bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, biblical/faith-based counseling, career/life changes, & anger management. My approach is integrative; however, I use and apply the theoretical approach that best suits you, the person. With that said, everything and anything I have and utilize, starts and ends with the gracious empowerment of a biblically based approach: an inside/outside job. Without The Lord leading & guiding me, I can do nothing. One of my mottos: “If it causes a problem, it IS a problem.
Whether you’ve tried therapy before or this is your first time, the process of choosing a therapist and getting started can feel overwhelming. It’s daunting, but important, as I believe the fit between client and therapist is one of the most important parts of treatment. I look at therapy as a partnership and try to adapt my therapeutic approach to each client’s unique needs. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel both validated and challenged. Everyone should have an environment where they feel comfortable discussing their thoughts and processing their emotions free of any judgment.
Whether you’ve tried therapy before or this is your first time, the process of choosing a therapist and getting started can feel overwhelming. It’s daunting, but important, as I believe the fit between client and therapist is one of the most important parts of treatment. I look at therapy as a partnership and try to adapt my therapeutic approach to each client’s unique needs. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel both validated and challenged. Everyone should have an environment where they feel comfortable discussing their thoughts and processing their emotions free of any judgment.
I believe that healing is ongoing, by exploring what feels most vulnerable. I feel called to hold space for women and men who are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges & the lasting impacts of trauma. I support my clients through issues that are hindering them from living the life they want and from being the person they aim to be in their relationships. I value supporting people in shifting how they view themselves and the world we share through improving self-esteem, self-worth & relational dynamics.
I believe that healing is ongoing, by exploring what feels most vulnerable. I feel called to hold space for women and men who are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges & the lasting impacts of trauma. I support my clients through issues that are hindering them from living the life they want and from being the person they aim to be in their relationships. I value supporting people in shifting how they view themselves and the world we share through improving self-esteem, self-worth & relational dynamics.
Is life hitting you hard right now? You feel stuck. Maybe you feel alone. Maybe you struggle doing what you need or want to get done. Maybe you struggle with the way your mind works. Or just maybe you feel like there's not much meaning in your life. My name is Michael Sheffield and alongside obtaining a Master's degree, I have been working as a counselor with people for 5 years. My life and training are lent towards working with people experiencing depressed mood, anxiety, overactive/judgemental minds, relationship stress, pessimism, trauma, sleep disturbance, OCD, uncontrolled anger/mood, workaholism, and chronic pain.
Is life hitting you hard right now? You feel stuck. Maybe you feel alone. Maybe you struggle doing what you need or want to get done. Maybe you struggle with the way your mind works. Or just maybe you feel like there's not much meaning in your life. My name is Michael Sheffield and alongside obtaining a Master's degree, I have been working as a counselor with people for 5 years. My life and training are lent towards working with people experiencing depressed mood, anxiety, overactive/judgemental minds, relationship stress, pessimism, trauma, sleep disturbance, OCD, uncontrolled anger/mood, workaholism, and chronic pain.
Hi there, I'm Sally! I draw on evidence-based therapies to guide clients through life's transitions and uncertainties with compassion, practical skills, and clarity. Every therapeutic partnership is one-of-a-kind, but my approach often weaves in psychoeducation about the brain—exploring how it functions and harnesses neuroplasticity to rewire unhelpful patterns and habits—while inviting you to envision fresh paths forward.
Hi there, I'm Sally! I draw on evidence-based therapies to guide clients through life's transitions and uncertainties with compassion, practical skills, and clarity. Every therapeutic partnership is one-of-a-kind, but my approach often weaves in psychoeducation about the brain—exploring how it functions and harnesses neuroplasticity to rewire unhelpful patterns and habits—while inviting you to envision fresh paths forward.
I work with adults who feel weighed down by depression, anxiety, or big life transitions-such as changes in relationships, work, or identity. Many people come to therapy feeling stuck or disconnected, wanting to feel more like themselves again. With over 15 years of experience as a Clinical Social Worker, I offer a compassionate space to explore what's underneath these feelings, learn to navigate emotions and life stressors, and develop healthier ways of coping. My goal is to help you build confidence, find more ease, and create relationships-and a life-that feels genuinely fulfilling.
I work with adults who feel weighed down by depression, anxiety, or big life transitions-such as changes in relationships, work, or identity. Many people come to therapy feeling stuck or disconnected, wanting to feel more like themselves again. With over 15 years of experience as a Clinical Social Worker, I offer a compassionate space to explore what's underneath these feelings, learn to navigate emotions and life stressors, and develop healthier ways of coping. My goal is to help you build confidence, find more ease, and create relationships-and a life-that feels genuinely fulfilling.
Helping clients become the best version of themselves through building a comfortable and non-judgmental therapeutic alliance. Welcoming diverse clients from every walk of life.
Helping clients become the best version of themselves through building a comfortable and non-judgmental therapeutic alliance. Welcoming diverse clients from every walk of life.
What makes a successful counseling session, is it a trusting relationship between a client and their counselor? I prioritize myself in creating a safe and non-judgmental space for all my client. If you are feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bulling, grief or the Everday life challenges, I'm here to provide you with the tools you need to be able to cope and be in a better state of mind. I am passionate about helping all individuals including military family, children, and teenagers achieve their goals.
Let me help you face-to-face or virtually, schedule your appointment today.
What makes a successful counseling session, is it a trusting relationship between a client and their counselor? I prioritize myself in creating a safe and non-judgmental space for all my client. If you are feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bulling, grief or the Everday life challenges, I'm here to provide you with the tools you need to be able to cope and be in a better state of mind. I am passionate about helping all individuals including military family, children, and teenagers achieve their goals.
Let me help you face-to-face or virtually, schedule your appointment today.
I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you can feel genuinely seen and heard—something we don’t always receive in everyday life. I believe each person carries strengths and resilience, even during overwhelming moments. Together, we can build on those strengths to navigate challenges, support growth, and move toward a life that feels more meaningful and aligned with what matters most to you. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, life transitions, or relationship challenges, I offer a space grounded in empathy, acceptance, and compassion, free of judgment.
I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you can feel genuinely seen and heard—something we don’t always receive in everyday life. I believe each person carries strengths and resilience, even during overwhelming moments. Together, we can build on those strengths to navigate challenges, support growth, and move toward a life that feels more meaningful and aligned with what matters most to you. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, life transitions, or relationship challenges, I offer a space grounded in empathy, acceptance, and compassion, free of judgment.
I work with people that feel that no one can help, and often feel that the harder they try the less progress they make. This can leave people feeling overwhelmed and isolated. I focus on helping people understand their underlying motivations and identify emotions that are being suppressed. The purpose of this is to help people develop a stronger sense of self, identify what motivates destructive patterns in their life, and help resolve interpersonal struggles. I work with couples and individuals and specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of personality disorders.
I work with people that feel that no one can help, and often feel that the harder they try the less progress they make. This can leave people feeling overwhelmed and isolated. I focus on helping people understand their underlying motivations and identify emotions that are being suppressed. The purpose of this is to help people develop a stronger sense of self, identify what motivates destructive patterns in their life, and help resolve interpersonal struggles. I work with couples and individuals and specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of personality disorders.
A part of being human is dealing with things that feel painful. It has been said that pain is inevitable but suffering is a choice. Over my 20+ years of work, I have appreciated helping people ease their suffering and cope with painful feelings and experiences. Through safe, open and honest discussion people learn to invite and foster the changes they want to see in their lives and in themselves.
A part of being human is dealing with things that feel painful. It has been said that pain is inevitable but suffering is a choice. Over my 20+ years of work, I have appreciated helping people ease their suffering and cope with painful feelings and experiences. Through safe, open and honest discussion people learn to invite and foster the changes they want to see in their lives and in themselves.
Hello! My name is Melissa Sandino and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Virginia and Florida. I like to think I have a warm and genuine personality which allows my to approach therapy lead with empathy and openness which fosters an environment of safety, trust, and non-judgement. With education and expertise in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and Parenting.
Hello! My name is Melissa Sandino and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Virginia and Florida. I like to think I have a warm and genuine personality which allows my to approach therapy lead with empathy and openness which fosters an environment of safety, trust, and non-judgement. With education and expertise in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and Parenting.
Dr. Jennie Polizzi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC&NCC, Phd&Sup, MS&Cert, EMDR, DBT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Expert specializes in complex & sensitive cases. Extensive experience working on high profile cases, court cases, & specialized cases. Specialist working with neurodivergent pop. including schizophrenia, bipolar dis., borderline personality dis., adhd, autism, ocd, ptsd, domestic violence, eating dis., career, anxiety & depression. Specialist works with individuals from the med & vet, mental health, crisis, PD & FD and military service members & leadership. Individuals, couple, family, EMDR, ART, DBT, & group work. Expert supervises and instructs professional counselors. Clients report that she is genuine, engaging, & helpful.
Expert specializes in complex & sensitive cases. Extensive experience working on high profile cases, court cases, & specialized cases. Specialist working with neurodivergent pop. including schizophrenia, bipolar dis., borderline personality dis., adhd, autism, ocd, ptsd, domestic violence, eating dis., career, anxiety & depression. Specialist works with individuals from the med & vet, mental health, crisis, PD & FD and military service members & leadership. Individuals, couple, family, EMDR, ART, DBT, & group work. Expert supervises and instructs professional counselors. Clients report that she is genuine, engaging, & helpful.
Justice Journey Wellness is a therapy practice dedicated to supporting individuals impacted by the criminal legal system. Our priority is to create a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental space where you are seen as a whole person, not defined by charges, convictions, or system involvement. We understand how incarceration, supervision, and reentry can affect mental health, identity, and relationships. Our approach is trauma-informed, compassionate, and collaborative, grounded in honoring your lived experience and resilience. We walk alongside you as you navigate reentry, probation or parole, and family reunification.
Justice Journey Wellness is a therapy practice dedicated to supporting individuals impacted by the criminal legal system. Our priority is to create a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental space where you are seen as a whole person, not defined by charges, convictions, or system involvement. We understand how incarceration, supervision, and reentry can affect mental health, identity, and relationships. Our approach is trauma-informed, compassionate, and collaborative, grounded in honoring your lived experience and resilience. We walk alongside you as you navigate reentry, probation or parole, and family reunification.
I am trained/licensed in DBT, CBT Cognitive Processing, Parenting Skills, Imago and Schema therapy.
I have been a therapist for 24 years. I feel a safe, nonjudgmental and cooperative therapy environment is important and helpful. Past work includes intensive therapy for a tribal Nation, at Hopkins, and supervising a crisis hotline. My therapy practice is diverse and dynamic, but always client centered. I am certified in DBT, CBT, schema, ACT, EMDR, Strength based, Imago/communication-focused couples therapy, multi-systemic/strategic family work, and emotional expression. I strive to match therapy to your needs and goals. I offer evenings and weekends. Please reach out to set up a consult. I look forward to talking with you!
I am trained/licensed in DBT, CBT Cognitive Processing, Parenting Skills, Imago and Schema therapy.
I have been a therapist for 24 years. I feel a safe, nonjudgmental and cooperative therapy environment is important and helpful. Past work includes intensive therapy for a tribal Nation, at Hopkins, and supervising a crisis hotline. My therapy practice is diverse and dynamic, but always client centered. I am certified in DBT, CBT, schema, ACT, EMDR, Strength based, Imago/communication-focused couples therapy, multi-systemic/strategic family work, and emotional expression. I strive to match therapy to your needs and goals. I offer evenings and weekends. Please reach out to set up a consult. I look forward to talking with you!
Are you navigating the stress of college life, a demanding career, or the challenges of relationships and family transitions? Do you often feel weighed down by anxiety, self-doubt, or the pressure to ‘get it all right’? I specialize in working with women in life transitions, whether you’re balancing school, starting a career, managing ADHD, or moving through major changes like divorce. Together, we’ll focus on reducing overwhelm, understanding the patterns that hold you back, and building the tools you need to feel calmer, more confident, and more connected to yourself.
Are you navigating the stress of college life, a demanding career, or the challenges of relationships and family transitions? Do you often feel weighed down by anxiety, self-doubt, or the pressure to ‘get it all right’? I specialize in working with women in life transitions, whether you’re balancing school, starting a career, managing ADHD, or moving through major changes like divorce. Together, we’ll focus on reducing overwhelm, understanding the patterns that hold you back, and building the tools you need to feel calmer, more confident, and more connected to yourself.
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How does schema therapy work?
Schema therapy is based on the idea that maladaptive thought patterns formed in childhood—that other people can never be relied on, for example—can interfere with healthy functioning in adulthood. Accordingly, schema therapy works by directly targeting such unhealthy schemas, identifying their consequences, and replacing them with more adaptive ways of thinking. To this end, schema therapists aim to “reparent” the client by offering what they didn’t get in childhood—validation, for instance, or compassion—to reorient their worldview.
Is schema therapy evidence-based?
Schema therapy is still considered relatively new, and research on its efficacy is still in progress. However, some studies have concluded that it can be effective at treating certain mental health conditions, most notably personality disorders such as borderline personality disorder. Evidence for its efficacy in treating conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD is promising but less conclusive, and experts warn that much of the existing research is of low quality.
Is schema therapy a type of CBT?
Schema therapy is based on many principles of CBT, most notably the process of recognizing and challenging maladaptive thought patterns. But because schema therapy also draws from other approaches,including psychoanalysis and Gestalt therapy, it is not considered a form of CBT. It also typically delves deeper into the client’s childhood than does CBT.
How does schema therapy work?
Schema therapy does not call for a set number of sessions and is instead open-ended, with the treatment timeline depending on the client’s primary concern(s), progress, and preferences. Treatment that lasts between six months and two years is common, though many clients will start to see progress much earlier than that.


