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
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-r
I have experience working with adolescents, parents, and early-stage adults, as well as an extensive background in working with athletes. I have experience working with adolescents, parents, and early-stage adults, as well as an extensive background in working with athletes. 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.
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.
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.
As a clinician, I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure & Response Prevention, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I have completed a specialization training in Obsessive and Compulsive disorder, but also treat areas relating to self-esteem issues, trauma-related disorders, anxiety and depression, eating disorders, suicidal ideation, self harm, Christian counseling, 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.
Shaunda Thompson, LPC-r
Guided by the wisdom of vincit qui se vincit — “he who conquers himself conquers” — clients in my care embark on a journey of self-mastery, turning inward to overcome internal challenges while pursuing meaningful personal and professional growth. I have experience working with children, adolescents, men and women in early, middle age to late adulthood. Working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, I bring an inclusive and holistic perspective to issues ranging from career transitions and Christian counseling to self-esteem, life phases, grief, and anxiety. With certifications in the Strong Interest Inventory, Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), and CliftonStrengths, I am well-equipped to help clients gain a clear, actionable
understanding of their unique strengths and potential. These assessments, combined with my background as a Counseling Resident, enable me to guide clients toward making purposeful decisions that resonate deeply with their authentic selves. My approach is both collaborative and client-centered, drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, creative therapy, and spiritually-based counseling. By tailoring these evidence-based interventions to each individual, I empower clients to unlock inner strengths, set intentional goals, and embrace transitions with confidence and clarity. I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic space grounded in openness and mutual respect. Together, we aim to conquer internal barriers, transforming
challenges into powerful opportunities for growth and building a resilient foundation for lifelong self-discovery, purpose, and fulfillment.
Wahida Talukder, LPC-r
Embarking on a career as a Licensed Professional Counselor Resident (LPC-R) in the Commonwealth of Virginia, I am passionate about guiding individuals towards mental wellness and personal growth. My counseling philosophy is grounded in the belief that effective therapy is a collaborative journey, uniquely tailored to each client’s specific needs and experiences.
I completed my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Texas Permian Basin. My therapeutic toolkit includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic approaches, which I employ to address a range of mental health concerns including trauma-related disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem challenges, and phase-of-life problems. Additionally, I am certified in play therapy, expanding my ability to work effectively with younger clients.
My practice focuses on creating a safe, empathetic space where clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and emotions. I work primarily with young adults and adults from diverse backgrounds, always striving to understand and respect each individual’s unique life experiences and cultural context.
As a counselor, I believe in bringing my authentic self to each session, fostering genuine connections with my clients. This approach allows for a therapeutic relationship built on trust, understanding, and mutual respect. My goal is to empower clients to develop coping strategies, gain self-awareness, and work towards their personal goals for improved mental health and overall well-being.
Joining the team at Renewal of the Mind, I am excited to contribute to a community dedicated to fostering mental health and supporting individuals on their path to personal renewal and growth.
Gillian Hodge, LPC-i
Hi, I’m Gillian Hodge, a graduate-level therapist in training currently completing my master’s in counseling at Northwestern University. As part of my clinical training, I’m working under the supervision of licensed professionals while providing therapy to individuals seeking support, healing, and personal growth.
My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and rooted in empathy. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to explore life’s challenges. I draw from a variety of evidence-based practices, including person-centered therapy, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral strategies, and I tailor my work to meet the unique needs of each individual. My overall approach is eclectic; there is no “one size fits all” method in therapy. I’m committed to practicing with cultural humility and openness.
I am especially passionate about working with children and teens. I strive to foster an environment that is inclusive, affirming, and grounded in respect. I have an M.Ed from UVA’s Curry School of Education and a BA from Duke University. I spent the past 23 years teaching second grade, third grade and preschool.
If you’re curious about starting therapy or looking for a supportive space to begin your journey, I’d be honored to work with you.
Elizabeth St. Mary, LPC-r
Learning how to cope and grow from the obstacles that life throws at you is vital to thriving in this world. I believe that one shoe does not fit all when it comes to mental health and recovery, so it is important to me to ensure client-centered therapeutic practices are culturally conscious, collaborative, and individualized. Identifying and understanding emotions, thoughts, and behaviors with empathetic and supportive counseling can be beneficial when juggling previous or current issues. While working through a biological, psychological, and sociological lens, I aim to guide individuals into a deeper understanding of who they are and how they can overcome their traumas.
I am a Resident in Counseling in the Commonwealth of Virginia, following the reception of my M.A. in Forensic Psychology with a counseling track from The Chicago School in Washington D.C. I have experience working with adults of a wide range of ages, ethnicities, sexualities, and socioeconomic statuses. I enjoy and have experience utilizing integrative and trauma-focused approaches such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy. My experience includes working with a range of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, suicidal ideation, bipolar disorders, schizophrenic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorders from various sexual, domestic, or personal trauma. I believe that using an approach catered to each client is important in therapy when working towards self-acceptance, mindfulness, and the ability to re-center your life when encountering difficulties and negative experiences.
Elisa Datcher, LPC-r
I earned my Master’s in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. I specialize in working with women and adolescent girls who have experienced sexual assault, domestic violence, trauma, anxiety, and depression, but I also welcome clients from all backgrounds and life stages who are seeking support and growth.
In my work, I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and a solution-focused approach. I believe in providing clients with practical tools and strategies they can use right away, while also creating a safe space to process emotions and experiences. My goal is to walk alongside my clients as they build resilience, find balance, and move toward meaningful change.
Before becoming a therapist, I served in the U.S. Army, an experience that shaped my understanding of discipline, perseverance, and the importance of mental health care. My own journey—from military service to entrepreneurship and eventually to counseling—has taught me that healing is possible and that people are stronger than they often realize.
Philosophy: I believe that every person has the capacity to heal and create meaningful change in their lives. I view therapy as a collaborative process where clients are empowered to reclaim their voices, embrace their strengths, and move from surviving to truly thriving.
Rhonda Smith, LPC-r
I graduated from Pentecostal Theological Seminary in Cleveland, TN in May 2020 with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am a Licensed Resident in Counseling (LPC-R) in Virginia, with three years experience in the field. My professional work has focused on addressing a range of issues, including depression, grief, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harming behavior, conflicts of faith, and low self-esteem. I am deeply passionate about mental health and recognize the increasing need to support children, adolescents, and adults in overcoming the challenges they face.
I utilize an integrated approach to client care, focusing on the needs and challenges of each individual client. My primary modality is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), focusing on challenging and changing disruptive thoughts, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors to improve emotional regulation and develop healthy coping strategies. When requested, I offer Christian counseling, integrating Christian principles to address personal issues, restore
hope, and transform lives through a Bio-Psycho-Social-Spiritual approach, fostering a holistic understanding of mental health. I believe every client has
the capacity for growth, wholeness, and psychological well-being.
I have been an Ordained Minister with the Church of God in Cleveland, TN since May 2014, and have held leadership roles in both Children’s and Youth Ministry programs within the local church. Additionally, I am a Certified Professional Mental Health Coach with the American Association of Christian Counselors. With a compassionate, empathetic, and encouraging approach, I am committed to utilizing my skills, experience, and personal journey to help clients navigate their challenges and achieve their fullest potential.
Veronica Genova, LPC-r
I am a Resident in Counseling with my Masters in Art Therapy earned from The George Washington University. I aim to help clients use art materials to self-express, self-reflect, and grow. I have a passion for fostering a therapeutic space that prioritizes safety, understanding, non-judgement, creativity, and expression. I have experience as an art therapist working with adolescents and adults. I incorporate the therapeutic techniques of humanistic theory, psychodynamic theory, and existential theory.
If you struggle to find the words to talk about traumas, experiences, or feelings, art therapy is an excellent alternative form of expression and coping. I am passionate about art therapy because anyone can benefit from it; There is no required age or skill level to participate. As an art therapist, I prioritize meeting clients where they are in both their artistic expression and their mental health journeys.
As an art therapist, I encourage clients to explore different art mediums. If there is an art medium or technique that a client does not know how to do, I happily provide guidance. Similarly, for those who want more guidance, I enjoy providing art directives related to a client’s goals. Alternatively, open-studio in art therapy offers the space for a client to create anything they want. Both approaches to art making involve art- and self-reflections. I follow the client’s lead on which approach they are compelled towards session-by-session.
Joshua Sams, ATR-P RIC
I am a Resident in Counseling with a Master’s degree in Art Therapy from The George Washington University. I work with young children, adolescents, and adults seeking support for emotional challenges, life transitions, and personal growth. My approach is collaborative, trauma-responsive, and grounded in creating a warm, supportive therapeutic environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. I have experience supporting clients with anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, suicidal ideation, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and complex trauma, and I have worked with military service members and military families navigating the unique stressors related to service and reintegration.
My work integrates expressive and talk-based approaches tailored to each client’s needs. Through art therapy, I collaborate with clients to identify creative media that align with their interests, comfort level, and therapeutic goals. This may include traditional art materials, digital media, and, when appropriate, virtual reality as an immersive expressive tool to support emotional processing, self-exploration, and emotional regulation. Creative approaches are always optional, client-led, and clinically intentional.
In addition to creative modalities, I provide talk therapy using an integrative framework informed by cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), client-centered therapy, humanistic theory, psychodynamic theory, and existential theory. This approach allows us to explore thought patterns, emotional experiences, relational dynamics, identity development, and meaning-making in a thoughtful and individualized way. I view therapy as a collaborative process rooted in trust, curiosity, and compassion, supporting clients in building insight, resilience, and lasting change.
Grace Dougherty, LPC-i
I’m currently pursuing my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. I have experience working with neurodivergent and culturally diverse clients in the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) field, supporting children and adolescents with autism, ADHD, anxiety, and other developmental disabilities. I have supported clients in communication, social development, and daily living skills. I enjoy finding creative, client-centered ways for kids and teens to express emotions and process experiences through play and other activities.
My counseling style is integrative, drawing from various evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Person-Centered Therapy. I focus on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and I support clients in building skills that help them meet their goals and improve their well-being. I also work with clients on building acceptance, self-compassion, and mindfulness.
I welcome individuals of all ages and backgrounds and strive to create a safe and comfortable space where clients feel heard, supported, and capable. I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship and helping clients recognize their strengths while working toward goals that matter to them. I enjoy helping clients explore their inner world and better understand how their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors impact their well-being. I aim to meet clients where they are and work as a team to promote happiness, authenticity, and value alignment.
Danielle Sarpong, LPC-r
The pressures of life can feel overwhelming at times, but you don’t have to face them alone. I offer a safe, supportive space where you can explore difficult emotions, gain insight into patterns that no longer serve you, and navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and confidence.
As a resident in counseling, I work with clients in order to build practical tools that support meaningful, lasting change. Through a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) lens, we will identify unhelpful thought patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and strengthen your ability to respond to stressors in ways that align with your values and goals.
I approach therapy with empathy, curiosity, and respect, honoring each client’s unique experiences and strengths. Whether you or your child is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship challenges, life transitions, or feeling stuck, my goal is to support you in creating a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Lana Barmawi, LPC-r
Healing and recovery can feel overwhelming at times, especially when navigating pain, loss, or major life transitions. At the same time, I believe that even in the midst of hardship, there is space for growth, resilience, and meaningful change. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable exploring their emotions at their own pace, while also learning healthy coping skills and developing more balanced, compassionate ways of relating to themselves and others. I take the approach to care, recognizing the importance of supporting the physical and emotional well-being of each person. As a counselor, my role is to walk alongside you and your family, offering guidance, understanding, and support throughout your healing journey. My expertise includes working with adults, adolescents, children, couples and families.
I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Psychology from George Mason University and my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix. I am trained in evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), as well as family and individual therapy. What inspires me most about clinical mental health counseling is the opportunity to walk alongside individuals, couples, and families as they build insight, resilience, and meaningful change especially during moments when life feels overwhelming or disconnected.
I work from a client-centered and culturally responsive perspective, informed by my multicultural background, and emphasize safety, collaboration, and deep respect for each client’s lived experience. I am mindful of how culture, identity, family systems, and personal history shape the way individuals understand themselves and the world around them, and I strive to create a therapeutic space where clients feel seen, valued, and understood. I am fluent in Spanish, which allows me to support a diverse range of clients and reduce barriers to care. I am also deeply committed to ongoing professional growth and am interested in pursuing specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the Gottman Method, reflecting my passion for trauma-informed care and strengthening emotional and relational connection.
Niranjana Warrier, LPC-r
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your path forward? Life can carry heavy expectations—many of which we place on ourselves. During times of stress, transition, or uncertainty, having the right support can make a meaningful difference.
I am a Resident in Counseling in Virginia with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northern Kentucky University. I work with adolescents and adults, supporting clients navigating anxiety, trauma, grief, and life transitions in both individual and group settings.
My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I also work from a trauma-informed lens, focusing on safety, emotional regulation, and skill-building while moving at a pace that feels supportive and empowering. Trauma work is approached thoughtfully and within the scope of your readiness and goals.
I believe kindness, empathy, and respect are essential to effective counseling. My goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and valued while building insight, resilience, and practical tools to support meaningful change.
I am fluent in Malayalam, a language native to the South Indian state of Kerala, and I enjoy working with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. I view counseling as a space for reflection, growth, and developing skills to navigate life’s challenges. It is an honor to support you on your journey.
Soyoung Lee, LPC-r
I believe that even when life feels overwhelming, we already have a unique inner strength that helps us to see the wholeness within ourselves. When a problem comes up, we don’t always have to rush to ‘fix’ it right away. Often, the most important step is simply creating the space to see and understand what is happening within us.
My name is Soyoung Lee, LPC-r, ATR-P, and I am here to help you navigate that process of discovery. Having earned my MA in Art Therapy from George Washington University, I bring a person-centered approach to our clinical work, purposefully blending verbal counseling with art-based interventions to support your healing, self-exploration, and emotional balance.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who seek help navigating anxiety, depression, trauma-related difficulties, and the complexities of life with chronic illness. I truly believe that you are the expert in your own life, and I find that therapy is most effective when it deeply honors your unique values, your own pace, and your creative strengths.
It is my joy to become a reliable therapeutic container for you—a place where your difficult feelings can be expressed and explored, where finding peace within yourself can safely happen, and where your self-awareness can truly grow. Together, we can access nonverbal channels to express what words cannot, gently rebuilding your resilience step by step. I am committed to my own ongoing professional growth so that I may fully partner with you on your personal journey toward wholeness. As a bilingual therapist, I am also honored to offer our sessions in Korean. I understand that language is deeply tied to our emotions and our sense of home. Being able to express yourself in your native tongue can make it easier to share your heart, navigate cultural nuances, and find the right words—or the right artistic symbols—for your experience. Whether we are speaking in English or Korean, my goal is to ensure you feel fully heard and understood in the language that feels most natural to you.