About Us

Naglaa Moussa, LPC (Founder)

Everyone is unique, therefore, I get to work with individuals in therapeutic, supportive, and collaborative approaches that are tailored depending on their needs. My focus in therapy is to ensure that you integrate deep-rooted insights and self-awareness into your behaviors patterns, along with a stable though process and emotional reactions. In therapy, I will assist you to process difficult life experience in order to increase your sense of control over your choices, healing from past hurts, resolving life issues, developing coping strategies, and overcoming obstacles.

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Virginia. My areas of expertise consist of depression, anxiety, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, codependency, addictions, divorce, relationship issues, family conflict, marital problems, parenting, spirituality, coping skills, Christian counseling, intellectual disability, and acculturation.

I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I also enjoy working with different populations from diverse backgrounds, including Arab populations due to my fluency in speaking, reading, writing and understanding of the Arabic language, along with knowledge about Middle Eastern culture.

Melissa Addessi, LPC

“Are you looking for someone who can be empathetic, understanding, attentive and non judgmental? I can offer the support and encouragement needed to achieve autonomy in your life by helping you gain more compassion and confidence in yourself. I use a cognitive behavioral approach to help you identify unhelpful thinking patterns that can affect your every day life, mindfulness to increase self awareness along with other evidenced based modalities. My goal within sessions is to establish a safe and healthy therapeutic relationship with the intent for you to gain a better understanding of yourself and the struggles you may be facing. I have experience working with adults and teens who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, social anxiety and bipolar disorder. With a greater self understanding and a new perspective, you can reach your goals and grow beyond your circumstances. “

Sonya Vanessa Quiroz, LPC-r

The only thing that is certain about life is change. Along with life can various transitions that can come with certain obstacles and challenges. Without the knowledge or tools how to navigate them, and most importantly, support, it can feel even more difficult. That’s where therapy can become a guiding light. My goal is to foster emotional well-being and personal growth with a holistic approach through a multicultural lens. That being said, there is no blanket statement and each client will be looked at individually for their unique strengths and abilities with a client-centered approach. As a counselor, I firmly believe a collaborative, trauma informed approach helps empower the client and is the best route towards successful outcomes. I aim to be honest, open and transparent with all my clients. I encourage clients to provide continuous feedback to ensure best quality of care.

I am EMDR trained and have experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, addiction, mood disorders, and life adjustments. A few evidence-based interventions I frequently use are cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and expressive arts therapy. I do my best to filter each approach through a trauma informed and multicultural lens.

Valeria Cuzzi-Marruffo, LPC-r

I have always said that treatment is not one-size-fits-all and must be tailored for the person and their needs. It is also essential to build genuine trust and a safe space for a client aiming to better their sense of wellbeing. As a resident in counseling, my focus is to allow room for vulnerability, genuineness, and empathy.

I am a resident in counseling in the Commonwealth of Virginia. I graduated with my M.Ed. in Counselor Education specializing in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Ohio University. I am experienced in cognitive behavioral theory (CBT) and psychodynamic approaches to work with trauma-related disorders, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, conduct disorders, relationship issues, self-esteem, and phase-of-life problems. I am EMDR trained to further expand treatment for trauma related disorders

I believe being a counselor is an extension of oneself, so I always ensure a sense of genuineness in the therapy room. I work with all different groups, including adolescents, young adults, and adults. I am also experienced working with diverse backgrounds culturally and socioeconomically. Coming from a Hispanic/Latinx background myself, I am fluent in English and Spanish, allowing me to work diligently with individuals from the same background.

Kelly Kramer, LPC-r

As a resident in counseling, I’m committed to helping people who have experienced something traumatizing in their life, people who are looking for someone to help them make sense of what has happened to them, or people who feel like they have no one to turn to for support. I have experience working with adults and adolescents who have experienced interpersonal trauma, childhood trauma, domestic violence, sexual trauma, and relationship concerns. I utilize an integrated cognitive behavioral and experiential approach, I am trained in EMDR therapy, a structured therapy that reprocesses traumatic memories and decreases symptoms, as well as training in Trauma Sensitive Yoga, an approach that allows for experience and decision with sensation in the body. My goal is to work collaboratively with you to better cope with everyday stressors, as well as to learn more about your trauma and process that trauma. I believe in the client being in charge of their own therapy experience, and I’m passionate about validating and uplifting you to be more independent and fully experience your own life.

Nadia Mihai, LPC-r

I believe in the value of therapy and am passionate about helping individuals overcome their challenges and achieve their full potential. Through a combination of empathy, active listening, and evidence-based techniques, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment to empower clients to explore their feelings and work toward lasting change. I am dedicated to helping people lead fulfilling and joyful lives.

Sometimes, our life may seem out of balance, whether the issues pertain to home, relationships, or work. My focus is to help you find the peace and joy you need. I have expertise in treating low self-esteem, depression, behavioral problems, ADHD, and anxiety. My style is supportive, empathic, nonjudgmental, and collaborative, respecting your needs and preferences. I will promote solution-focused strategies to help you achieve your goals.

My training allows me to provide therapy to individuals of all ages, couples, and families. As an immigrant, I can relate to individuals struggling with adapting to a new culture and personal experiences and help you learn how to deal with them. I am fluent in Brazilian Portuguese and can assist clients who prefer a therapist who speaks their native language.

Sharon Jones, LPC

Living a life with more joy and fulfillment is truly possible for you. With a full heart, I will walk with you to develop a healthier sense of self, nurture positive behavioral and thought patterns that leads to personal growth and healing. My personal model of therapy integrates your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while providing a way for you to drive your therapy sessions to a place where you feel acknowledged and empowered. As a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Virginia, my core competencies center around my work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.

With more than 24 years of counselling experience, I have worked with issues such as attention deficit, depression, anxiety, abuse, relationships, parenting, grief, Christian counseling, obsessive compulsive behaviors, self-esteem, coping skills, suicidal ideation, personality disorders, pre-marital counseling, and traumatic events such as PTSD, abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault.

I believe that individuals and families deserve support and care to make changes in areas that will lead them to stand with confidence in their choices while moving beyond past hurts, choices, and circumstances. I cherish the opportunity to offer a listening ear while sharing insight and thoughtful guidance as clients navigate their way to healthier and more life fulfilling outcomes.

Alessia McIntosh, LPC-i

Are you seeking positive change in your life? I am a counselor working under supervision who is passionate about supporting individuals as they navigate challenges and obstacles that arise in their lives. Through a journey of self-acceptance and self-awareness we will collaborate together to take action-oriented steps towards your personal goals in a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment.
I work with clients from diverse backgrounds and emphasize cultural awareness within sessions. I have experience working with adolescents and early-stage adults. It is my belief that when equipped with the necessary tools, many individuals are capable of overcoming challenges or obstacles that arise over the course of their lives.
My therapeutic approach to action-oriented counseling encompasses cognitive behavioral, acceptance commitment therapy (ACT), strengths-based, and person-centered therapy with a focus on motivational interviewing among others based on the needs of the client to address issues such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, life challenges, and other mental health concerns.

Marion Burke, LPC-r

Painful past experiences and current life stressors can tremendously impact our mental health, challenge our relationships with others, and affect our sense of self. We often have to find strategies to adapt and survive difficult circumstances of disconnection, criticism, invalidation, and trauma. Without realizing it, we may develop beliefs about ourselves that are limiting and self-defeating, and we continue to operate from old patterns long after they have stopped serving us. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, empathic, and nonjudgmental space for you to share, learn, grow, and heal. I am passionate about helping others break negative and self-destructive patterns, overcome their challenges, and lead healthier, happier lives.

My therapeutic approach is based on authenticity, compassion, and connection, as I believe healing takes place through our genuine, growth-fostering relationships with others. I use a person-centered holistic style in counseling to meet clients’ needs, and I have experience with trauma-related disorders, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, PTSD, low self-esteem, family-of-origin issues, relationship concerns/domestic violence, as well as sexual trauma.

I am a resident in counseling, and I hold a M.Ed. in Counseling and Human Development specializing in Mental Health Counseling. I am also a Licensed Applied Psychologist as well as a Board Certified Coach. I enjoy working with a diverse population of adults of all ages and from various cultural/socioeconomic backgrounds. I am familiar with the military community due to my own experiences as an Army wife. As an immigrant from Germany, I have knowledge of the German culture; I am fluent in speaking, reading, writing, and understanding the German language.

Laura Valdez, LPC-i

Sometimes when we are weighed down by our struggles, it can be hard to see a way out. But I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing with support, encouragement, and guidance. I am passionate about providing individualized care that takes into account every person’s unique needs and strengths to help them build the life they want. Whether you are seeking a shift in perspective, a sense of purpose, or coping skills to deal with life’s challenges, I am dedicated to supporting you in finding peace and fulfillment in your life.

I am currently a counselor under supervision and have experience working with children and adults from diverse backgrounds struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, self-esteem issues, and ADHD. My approach is person-centered, holistic, and trauma-informed, and I strive to offer individuals a safe, healing space to explore their emotions and do the meaningful work of creating positive change in their lives. Using cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness, I help clients learn to navigate stressors, develop confidence in their abilities, and gain insight into their problems. While change is not always easy, choosing therapy is a courageous step towards personal growth, and I am honored to walk alongside each client on their journey of healing and self-discovery.

Ruth Gahsu, LPC-r

Supporting you on your journey toward healing and personal growth is my deepest commitment. I strive to create a warm, empathetic environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and collaboration, recognizing it as a deeply personal journey of self-discovery and growth. My goal is to walk alongside you, offering support and understanding as you navigate your emotions and experiences. My expertise includes working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.

I believe in the significance of the biopsychosocial model, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of biological, psychological, and social factors in shaping mental health. This holistic perspective allows me to understand and address the complex elements of your life, integrating emotional, physical, and environmental influences into our work together.

With a multicultural background, I offer a rich, nuanced perspective, particularly sensitive to the unique challenges and strengths that come with navigating multiple cultural identities. This experience enhances my work, enabling me to provide a more inclusive and understanding approach to therapy. I utilize evidence-based, client-centered methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Holistic Therapy, and Mindfulness. What truly guides me is a deep respect for your unique story and perspective.

My experience includes working with a range of issues such as anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting, grief, Christian counseling, self-esteem, adjustment disorders, coping skills, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Additionally, being bilingual in English and Tigrinya has allowed me to serve the Eritrean/Ethiopian community in Northern Virginia, providing a range of clinical services to support their mental health and well-being.

I firmly believe in the power of connection and understanding. My aim is to be a supportive guide as you navigate life’s complexities and work towards a more meaningful and balanced existence.

 

Nina Garland, LPC-r

Are you truly ready to know yourself and embrace your emotional well-being? I am dedicated to guiding individuals through the intricate paths of their emotional and mental well-being. With a deep understanding rooted in my own family’s experiences with mental illness and my personal journey as a Latina woman, I recognize the importance of creating tailored treatment plans that honor each person’s unique needs. I hold honesty, respect, cultural proficiency, and confidentiality in the highest regard.

With experience working with clients of all ages, I have worked with conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, adjustment disorder, and bipolar disorder. Using therapeutic methods such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy, I collaborate closely with individuals to help them define and achieve their personal goals. It’s truly a privilege to be a part of each client’s journey toward healing and fulfillment, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Elisabeth Baker, LPC-r

The process of healing and recovery can be a daunting experience. But with every challenge and every hardship, comes an opportunity for growth and transformation into a stronger and healthier version of oneself. I firmly believe in the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to explore their emotions, while still being able to develop healthy coping mechanisms and positive mindsets. I believe in caring for the whole person, tending to the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of the individual in need.

I am currently a resident in counseling in Virginia and have received my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Franciscan University of Steubenville. I have experience working with adults and children, but especially enjoy working with children and teenagers. I have worked with children & families in trauma, as well as provided individual counseling and group therapy in educational settings.

I provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I specialize in self-esteem issues, behavioral problems, trauma-related disorders, anxiety and depression, suicidal ideation, self-harm, Christian counseling, eating disorders, attachment disorders, and adjustment disorders.

I am here to walk with you, your child, or your family, as you embark on your journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. Together, we can work towards creating positive change and achieving a greater sense of well-being.

Basma Armanious, LPC-i

Feeling like you’re living a life that isn’t truly yours? Struggling to find your purpose, feeling lonely, stressed, or anxious as a result? I can guide you through these thoughts and emotions to find harmony and fulfillment in your life. My unique journey, transitioning from a 20-year career in dentistry to finding my purpose in counseling, provides me with a distinct perspective. As an Egyptian-American Christian, I intimately understand the challenges of cultural assimilation, offering a diverse and empathetic outlook to my clients. My dedication to helping others find purpose and satisfaction extends beyond my clinical practice through my involvement in mission trips to Greece, Egypt, India, and Nepal, where I’ve provided physical and emotional support to underserved communities.

My therapeutic approach is influenced by my experience in patient care, as well as my roles as a mother and wife. Additionally, I have received training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I am passionate about working with individuals of all ages and specialize in assisting clients with managing stress, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, self-shame, and negative self-talk. My holistic approach is designed to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can freely explore their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. Through identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and developing effective coping strategies, I aim to empower my clients to take charge of their mental health and cultivate a resilient, positive mindset to find satisfaction and purpose in life. Fluent in both English and Arabic, I am dedicated to providing empathetic, culturally sensitive care that respects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of my clients.