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Meet the Team

We have assembled a knowledgeable team of professionals who provide person-centered, compassionate care with a variety of specialities. Get to know us below to find out more about our approach and perspective.  We look forward to working with you!

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Co-Founder

Maria Kerr, LPC-S, LSATP, C-DBT

Chesapeake & Virtual Sessions - Insurance & Self-Pay

Connection is powerful and makes therapy an interpersonal experience. I also believe therapy is a positive way to learn how to trust and grow. My goal is to allow you to address strengths and barriers to healthy relationships, healthy living, and overall healing. 

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I have over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in a variety of mental health settings. I specialize in trauma, substance use and abuse, depression, self-esteem/self-worth, stress, and relationships. My approach is person-centered, relaxed, and non-judgmental. My treatment method utilizes aspects of trauma informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, experiential therapy and am a trained Brainspotting practioner. I tailor sessions to meet your needs because this is all about you.

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I am glad you came to therapy. I look forward to walking this journey with you as you discover the life you want to live. 

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Co-Founder

Sarah Spruiell, LPC-S

Chesapeake & Virtual Sessions - Insurance & Self-Pay

Therapy is a place to build the bridge to your goals.  My goal is to help you find and use those tools to build that bridge.  I believe a non-judgmental, warm and authentic approach is the best way to help you feel comfortable and open.  My approach tends to be direct and I often use humor.

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I have worked in the field for over 15 years in variety of counseling environments.  I have worked with children, adults, couples and families. I tend to lean towards TF-CBT, CBT and DBT approaches and am a trained Brainspotting practitioner which allows me to focus on you, your needs and goals. If your are struggling with processing trauma, grief, anxiety, depression or self-esteem, these approaches can be life changing.

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I am so proud of you for taking the first step towards feeling better.  I am looking forward to walking this journey with you and seeing you discover the life you love! 

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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Shahauna Mallery, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance & Self-Pay Options

Children, Teens and Adults 

​For as long as I’ve worked in mental health, I’ve believed that care should feel personal, like someone is truly listening to who you are and what you need. Over the years, I’ve learned that every person carries a different story, and healing begins when we build a plan that honors that story. That’s why I center my work around you - your life, your goals, your strengths, and the support system that surrounds you. 

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My goal is to understand who you are outside of just your symptoms so we can create a plan that fits your real life. 

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My path in this field began over 16 years ago. I spent many of those years as a psychiatric RN, walking alongside individuals and families during some of their hardest moments. Those experiences shaped me and taught me how powerful it is when a person feels seen as well as how frustrating it can be when medications help just enough to get by but not enough to feel like you. 

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I became a Nurse Practitioner because I wanted to help people find clarity, stability, and wellness without being buried under five or six medications. I want to help you feel like yourself, not numbed or disconnected, so that you can thrive in your daily life.

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I work with people of all ages and provide medication management for depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and more. I bring a holistic lens to every visit, combining clinical experience with compassion and common sense.

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I look forward to partnering with you and with the people who support you as you grow into the strongest, healthiest version of yourself.

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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Jessica Compton, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance & Self-Pay Options

Children, Teens and Adults 

I believe in patient-centered care and am committed to developing individualized treatment plans that reflect each person’s unique needs, goals, and life circumstances. I value collaboration with patients, families, and other providers to ensure care is thoughtful, supportive, and effective.

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I have worked in the field of behavioral health for over 10 years across a variety of psychiatric settings. After many years as a psychiatric registered nurse, I was motivated to become a nurse practitioner in order to expand my ability to provide comprehensive psychiatric care to individuals and families. I take a holistic, trauma-informed approach and enjoy working with patients across the lifespan.

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I am a U.S. Army veteran and the spouse of a retired Navy service member, which gives me valuable insight into the unique mental health needs of military members, veterans, and their families.

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I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and related concerns.

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My goal is to ensure you feel heard and supported as you navigate your mental health needs, while providing clear, compassionate, and evidence-based care.

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Licensed Clinician & Art Therapist

Taylor Bishop, LPC, ATR-BC

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance and Self-Pay

Adults

My approach is collaborative, intuitive, and rooted in meaning-making. I’m a licensed professional counselor and a board certified art therapist and I often work with clients through the language of symbolism and metaphor — using both conversation and creative expression to explore the deeper layers of their experiences. Together, we’ll uncover what your emotions, patterns, and imagery might be trying to tell you.

 

Whether you’re processing trauma, navigating identity, or feeling stuck in familiar cycles, I would be honored to help guide you toward greater clarity and insight. We’ll explore the stories you’ve been carrying — the ones you’ve outgrown and the ones you’re still writing — and use them as tools for healing, growth, and transformation.

 

You can expect a laid back, warm, reflective space to be curious and creative. You don’t need to be an artist — just open to exploring your inner world in new ways. Through creative exploration, thoughtful dialogue, and metaphor-rich work, you will begin to make sense of your experiences and develop a deeper, more compassionate relationship with yourself. In our work, you’ll gain insight, emotional tools, and a sense of agency over your personal narrative — so you can move forward feeling more whole, more connected, and more grounded in who you are.

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Licensed Clinician 

Carson Hanna, LCSW

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance & Self Pay 

Children, Teens and Adults

Therapy is a way to explore who we are and what we believe in. I believe every individual has the ability to enact the change they want to see in their lives when given the correct tools. I believe that humor and creativity can be healing, and often utilize them in session. 

 

My approach to treatment often includes aspects of CBT, Trauma Informed Care, and strengths-based therapy. I have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of therapeutic settings. I have experience working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues and relationship difficulties. 

 

I am so glad you’re here. I am looking forward to helping you become the best version of yourself you can be!

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Licensed Clinician 

Kayla Query, LCSW

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance & Self Pay

Children, Teens and Adults 

I believe that therapy can be a valuable tool to help manage all of life’s stressors. When we hide away our emotions, we often find ourselves overwhelmed and unable to cope. It’s my goal to help you in managing the feelings we often tuck away. I often take on a direct approach and I believe in meeting you where you are. 

 

My therapy leans on aspects of DBT, Trauma-Informed Care, and a strength-based approach. I also value psychology and I like to often teach about how the brain responds in difficult situations. 

 

I have experience working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and trauma. My primary age groups of focus are children and adolescents. 

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Licensed Clinician

Brittney Melton, LPC, PMH-C

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance & Self-Pay

Adults

Life is full of challenges. Everyday we are tested with more than we can seemingly handle. My job is to walk beside you and support you as you face these challenges head on. No matter how daunting or insignificant the challenge seems, I’ll be there for you each step of the way.

 

I believe you have all the strength and power within yourself to overcome anything life throws your way. My job is to be your sounding board and realistic supporter through your counseling journey. I will push you gently to dig deep under the surface and cheer you on as you achieve your goals.

 

I specialize in trauma, women related issues, perinatal, anxiety, depression, and Christian faith-based challenges. I utilize EMDR, strengths based, CBT, and solution-focused therapy approaches to guide you to healing. I look forward to working with you on your journey!

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Licensed Clinician

Monet Collins, LPC, ADHD-CCSP, CMIP

Virtual Only - Insurance & Self-Pay

Teens and Adults

Life is a journey that involves moving through stages of self-awareness, knowledge, clarity, and wisdom. I believe everyone has the strength to travel this journey, but sometimes we need some assistance along the way. When we begin therapy, we enter onto the path that allows us to explore and reconnect with all parts of ourselves to achieve wholeness.  

 

My therapeutic approach is diverse and includes aspects of Jungian therapy, Buddhist CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Indigenous teachings. I often utilize tarot cards, guided meditations, and a sprinkle of humor. I have experience working with ADHD, anxiety, personality disorders, depression, PTSD, military life, and cultural conflicts.  

 

I am greatly looking forward to walking the path to healing with you and helping you achieve your dreams! 

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Licensed Clinician

Heather Coddington, LPC

Virtual Only - Insurance & Self-Pay

Teens and Adults

I strongly believe that people need people. We are social beings and we thrive on connection to and support from others. Whether we are going through an unusually stressful time or we need more engaged and thorough support, having someone to lean on can make a world of difference. 

 

I use techniques from CBT, DBT, and mindfulness and maintain a trauma- informed approach with all clients. I have experience with adolescents and adults in inpatient crisis settings, as well as children and adolescents as a Military Family Life Counselor- in addition to my own experience as a military spouse. I focus on individuals 13 years and older struggling with anxiety, LGBTQIA+ concerns, military- related issues, and women’s issues. 

 

My place as a therapist is to help you untangle concerns, thoughts, beliefs, and possibilities into a workable, realistic plan of action for you to create the life you want. We will work together to figure out the path that works best for you and navigate it as partners. You are the expert of your own life; I am here to help you make sense of the universe’s shenanigans!

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Licensed Clinician

Amanda Guenzel, LCSW

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance & Self-Pay

Young Adults/Adults

Therapy is for everyone, but not every therapist is for everyone. Therapy is about connection and allowing someone into our most vulnerable moments. It is with this knowledge that I attempt to forge that connection with a person-centered approach with the desire to meet an individual where they are to be a guide during the healing process. With the utilization of the person-centered approach, I can empower my client to direct their own treatment. The implementation of empathic listening, humor, kindness/compassion, acceptance, and respect are all integral components of a prosperous therapeutic relationship.

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My approach is integrative and utilizes aspects of CBT, trauma informed, solution focused, conflict resolution, and problem-solving therapies. I have experience working with various populations and ages. As a military spouse for over 18 years, I have a unique perspective and passion for assisting the men and women within the military community and their families, as well as their civilian counterparts, as they navigate the tumultuous realm of mental health.

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It takes great strength to recognize and to seek help, be proud of your journey and I look forward to the opportunity to navigate it with you.

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Licensed Clinician 

Kayla Rolan, LCSW

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance & Self-Pay

Children, Teens and Adults 

Therapy is a way to facilitate positive change, promote self-awareness, and self-acceptance. I believe in the power of fostering resilience and self-empowerment. My goal is to guide clients on a path toward healing, self-discovery, and improved mental well-being.

 

I offer a warm and empathetic approach to therapy, aiming to create a safe and collaborative environment for you to explore your challenges and work towards personal growth. 

 

My therapeutic style integrates evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Trauma Informed Care, and strengths-based approaches, tailored to meet your unique needs and meet you where you are. I have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of therapeutic settings. I have experience addressing a spectrum of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, and life transitions.

 

I am driven by a genuine passion for helping individuals achieve their fullest potential. I am dedicated to walking alongside you on your journey towards healing, self-acceptance, and being the best version of yourself.

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Licensed Clinician 

Rebecca Steinel, LCSW

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance & Self-Pay

Children, Teens and Adults 

Welcome! I am so glad that you are here. I believe that therapy is rooted in connection. Through this connection, we can work together to set goals that are realistic and important to you. 

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My approach to therapy prioritizes creating a warm and validating space for growth and healing. In sessions I incorporate aspects of DBT, CBT, Trauma Informed Care. I value a person-centered, strengths-based approach to this work.

 

My experience is primarily working with children and adolescents struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, anger, and interpersonal issues. 

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I am grateful for the opportunity to walk along side you as you take the next step in prioritizing yourself.  You deserve it!

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Licensed Clinician 

John Copeland, LPC

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance & Self-Pay

Teens, Adults, Couples and Families 

My name is John Copeland, and I am a licensed professional counselor. I've been practicing for more than 25 years. I have professional experience with clients experiencing diverse emotional, cognitive, and behavioral issues in need of resolution. My knowledge base has expanded with each stage of my personal development as a psychotherapist. I have worked with people facing various challenges including those related to single life relationship problems, family issues, women's and men's issues, the experiences of grief and loss, and hardships associated with trauma. Let me assist you in navigating the challenges in your life.

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Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired.

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You are taking responsibility by accepting where you're at in life and making a commitment to change the situation by seeking therapy. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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Licensed Clinician 

Jenelle Drake, LPC

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance & Self-Pay

Teens

One of my first supervisors told me 90% of therapy is the relationship. This has stuck with me through my years of practice and shaped the way I think about the therapy process. I work to get to know my clients, validating their struggles and experiencing life with them, while providing skills and sprinkling laughter and sarcasm along the way. I show my real, enthusiastic, down-to-earth, quirky self, which allows my clients to love and look forward to therapy, despite it being difficult and not always fun.

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My time in the military promoted growth and increased self-esteem, leaving me with a strong interest to support and inspire others, specifically teens due to my own struggles with confidence and self-worth through my teenage years. I graduated with a Master’s in Psychology in 2015 after working with homeless veterans with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders. Very quickly, I realized that my heart still resided with helping adolescents. I started a position assisting severely-emotionally disturbed teens in a residential setting who were on probation and in foster care, as well as teens experiencing suicidal/homicidal ideations who were leaving mental health inpatient facilities. I have worked with teens since 2016 and love encouraging them to be the best version of their unique selves, because why would we want to be like everyone else?

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Licensed Clinician 

Ashley Bagley, LPC

Chesapeake - Insurance and Self-Pay

Teens & Adults 

As a compassionate and experienced therapist, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve personal growth using a blend of evidence-based techniques and humor.

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I started my career as a residential counselor, where I worked as an in-residence counselor for children with Reactive Attachment Disorder. I have since worked with children, teens, and adults in various settings to help navigate challenging circumstances and to access essential resources. My work focuses on using a variety counseling modalities to include Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Humanistic/Client Centered Counseling, Mindfulness Interventions, Narrative Therapy among others. 

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Beginning therapy can be an intimidating process, therefore I do all that I can to create a safe, a non-judgmental space for you to express yourself and to learn more about your authentic self.  In session I am known for excellent communication skills, problem-solving skills, and empathy. I often remind my clients that we are all learning, and to be more patience and forgiving of themselves. I take a person-centered approach to every case, ensuring each client feels seen, respected and known, while being culturally sensitive and inclusive.

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I am committed to aiding others along the wonderful journey of healing and self-discovery. Whether you are seeking support and care for anxiety, depression, parent child conflicts, life stages/transitions, burn out or improved self, I aim to guide and empower you with the tools and resources needed to create lasting positive changes.

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Licensed Clinician 

Kelly Knight, LCSW

Chesapeake - Insurance and Self-Pay

Teens & Adults 

​Therapy can be an overwhelming and scary step to take. I believe the first step is creating a safe, open space to address the personal challenges you are experiencing. My goal is to ensure you are comfortable and to meet you where you are at on your own personal journey.


I have experience providing services to children and adults in various settings and levels of care, including schools, inpatient hospitalization and outpatient programs. I specialize in treating mood disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, and challenges with self-esteem. My approach to treatment is person-centered and solution-focused with a trauma informed lens. I incorporate aspects from multiple modalities, such as CBT, DBT, and ACT.

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I look forward to supporting you and your unique journey!​​

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Licensed Clinician 

Sean Taylor, LMFT 

Chesapeake - Insurance and Self-Pay

Children, Teens, Adults & Couples/Family 

“Has life got you down?” That classic question that we all come back to when things just seem a bit too crazy. The question that we’ve heard so many times, even when we were a kid. So let me ask you, has life got you down? Do you feel like your life has transitioned to a place where you feel lost, alone, or quite like nobody really understands what it’s like to be in your shoes? Has anxiety, depression, relational issues or trauma, family conflict or parenting issues beaten you down? Let me ask you one last question: is the idea of therapy terrifying? If you answered yes to any of these questions, please believe me, there’s a way.

I look at my clients from a relational standpoint and work to depathologize them. I don’t work to diagnose, I work to meet the goals of my clients and integrate these new changes and core values into their lives. For this, I use an eclectic therapy style, utilizing Play Therapy, Emotion-Coaching, and other attachment-based techniques.

My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, judgement-free atmosphere to allow your therapeutic journey to take its course. To show you that you no longer have to be, or have to feel, alone in the struggles that you face. To allow you to be you and to find beauty in what that holds. If it is in my scope, I want to help.​​

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Resident in Counseling and Art Therapy 

Alyssa Jacobsen, MS

Chesapeake & Virtual - Sentara Health Plans & Self Pay

Children, Teens & Adults 

I graduated from Eastern Virginia Medical School and now am resident in art therapy and counseling. Art therapy can be a helpful way to communicate without actually ever needing to say any words at all. Being able to use different art techniques in therapy can aid in a deeper understanding of how we may deal with our emotions and handle everyday life situations and stressors. 

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I tend to use an integrative approach to therapy with its main approach revolving around being person-centered. I believe each person should have a say in how they want their treatment to look like and I can try my best to support them in their success. I have experience working with all ages in varying types of settings and tend to have a gentle approach to individuals in therapy no matter their age. I have experience working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, self-esteem issues, medical inflicted stressors, addictions, and behavioral challenges. 

 

I look forward to supporting you as you make the great leap to starting your healing journey.

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Licensed Clinician 

Chris Torre, LMFT, CCTP

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance and Self-Pay 

Children, Teens & Adults 

​I earned my B.S in Psychology from James Madison University and his M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northcentral University. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has worked in various mental health settings including in the homes, schools, outpatient, and hospitals for the past 15 years treating a diverse population of clients and families.

 

I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) who primarily works with children and youths aged 4-24 and their families. I specialize in treating trauma/ PTSD, adoption/fostering, family conflict, anxiety, and emotional/ behavioral disorders. I work with individuals and families and tailors treatment to meet their personal and unique needs utilizing a variety of treatment modalities including behavior modification, cognitive- behavior therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy ,play, sand, art, music, and virtual therapies.

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Licensed Clinician 

Jessica Ware, LPC

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance and Self-Pay 

Children, Teens & Adults 

Finding a person to talk to, that you feel comfortable with, can be difficult. My goal is to always provide a space where it feels comfortable and relaxing for you to let go of the things that are troubling you. Being a mom of two and the wife of a retired navy sailor I have spent a lot of my time in the therapeutic environment working with many different individuals. I learned early on that not one person is the same and that not every approach works for everyone. My goal is to never make you feel like coming to therapy is a chore but rather something you feel excited about doing as you work on healing yourself. I want to be along for YOUR journey and watch YOU make the magic happen.

 

My therapeutic approach is one that can be defined as person-centered. Having worked with children and adults, couples, military and families, I strive to learn who you are as a client and work with you at your pace. Do you just need a space to vent frustrations that you've been holding on to? I'm here for it. Do you need someone to help you process feelings and emotions? I've got your back. Whatever you're hoping to gain from therapy, my hope is to make it happen. Through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy we will work together to help discover how changing your thoughts can help change your feelings and lead to changes in your behavior. Via motivational interviewing techniques and narrative therapy, you are the writer of your story and you are able to take the reigns of the following chapters. 

 

I enjoy working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, military-related issues, teens and adults. I am a strong believer that our past doesn't define us but helps to shape us and I would love to travel along your journey of self-discovery and growth as you continue to mold yourself into the person that you want to be. Our time together will be judgement free and used in a way that you feel you need that day. From playing games or drawing while we talk, to utilizing psychoeducation, each session will develop based on your needs in the moment, rather than "a game plan in mind." I am beyond excited to have you here and can't wait to see what amazing experiences we will share together as you navigate this world of healing!

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Licensed Clinician 

Amanda Plumb, LPC-S

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance and Self-Pay 

Young Adults, College Students & Adults 

I believe therapy is an essential form of self-care where you can prioritize yourself in the healthiest of ways, show up as your most authentic self, and take up emotional space. My priority is to create an emotionally safe environment as you share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences to achieve healing free from judgment, shame, criticism, punishment, or blame. Therapy should not be a “one size fits all,” but instead a customized approach tailoring it to meet your unique personality, needs, values and goals. I also enjoy using journal prompts, metaphors along with the music of Taylor Swift, pop culture, movies, TV shows, musical lyrics, reality TV, art, TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram.

 

My therapeutic personality can be described as bubbly, creative, intuitive, and compassionate. Relationally trained, I strive to focus therapeutic work in 3 areas: the relationship you have with yourself, the relationship you have with others, and how you show up in the world. I enjoy helping you explore your past and present experiences to increase a stronger sense of self-awareness, promote a better understanding of how your experiences have shaped you, answer the "why's" that tend to haunt, and help you create a life that you love.

 

My passion is helping women with stress, burn out, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, low self-esteem, social anxiety, healing from break ups/divorce, career choices, friendship issues, codependency, conflict avoidance, people pleasing, Type A, dating, communication, self-abandonment, making decisions, life transitions, college stress, college life adjustment, imposter syndrome, (FOMO) fear of missing out, shadow work, and healing inner child wounds.

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Licensed Clinician 

Faith Medina, LPC

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance and Self-Pay 

Adults

Therapy is a big step for anyone to take. It is a place where you are invited to slow down, take up emotional space, and show up as you are. I strive to create a space that is warm and emotionally safe, where your thoughts, feelings, and experiences can be shared freely, without judgment, and will be met with compassion, not criticism. You are welcome here exactly as you are.

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I work from a relational, trauma-informed approach that centers safety, attunement, and compassion. My style is intuitive, grounded, and collaborative, allowing therapy to unfold at a pace that honors you and your lived experiences. Rather than relying on a single method, I integrate trauma-informed approaches, including EMDR, parts-based work, and cognitive and somatic interventions, in ways that are thoughtfully tailored to each individual. I believe the therapeutic relationship itself is a powerful part of healing, and I strive to create a space where you feel emotionally safe, understood, and met without judgment. I assess for readiness and tolerance before moving into deeper work. I focus less on reducing the symptoms and more on helping you restore self-trust, increase a sense of internal safety, and support meaningful, lasting change.

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I have a special passion for working with adults navigating the impact of relational trauma, including all forms of domestic and intimate partner abuse, whether you are currently in the relationship, in the process of leaving, or healing after it has ended. I also support clients in their journey of working through childhood trauma, attachment wounds, and experiences that have shaped how they see themselves and relate to others. Often, stress or anxiety shows up alongside these experiences, and we approach it with care and curiosity rather than judgment.

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I bring my full, authentic self into the therapy space. I strive to be welcoming, grounded, and genuine. You do not need to have everything figured out, explain away your experiences, or be in a certain stage of healing. I will meet you where you are and walk alongside you as you move toward greater safety, clarity, and self-trust.

 

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Licensed Clinician 

Sarah Duvall, LCSW                                               Virtual Only - Insurance and Self-Pay 

Teens

I earned my bachelors and master’s in social work from the University of Louisville. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has worked in multiple mental health settings including in home and outpatient. 

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As an outpatient therapist specializing in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and Parent Management Training, I am committed to helping families navigate challenges and strengthen their relationships. My practice focuses on providing a supportive and nurturing environment where parents and children can work together to overcome behavioral and emotional obstacles.

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My approach is warm, collaborative, and evidence-based, ensuring that families receive personalized support tailored to their unique needs. Whether you’re navigating behavioral issues, trauma-related stress, or seeking effective parenting strategies, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

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Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family, friends, and my two cocker spaniels. 

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Together, we can create a nurturing environment where both parents and children thrive!

 

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Licensed Clinician 

Kristin Bates, LCSW                                        

Virtual Only - Insurance and Self-Pay 

Teens & Adults

Therapy doesn’t have to be a place where you explain or minimize your lived experience. I provide a supportive, culturally responsive space where individuals, families, teens, and tweens can show up fully and be understood. Whether you’re managing stress, anxiety, life transitions, generational patterns, or simply seeking growth, you don’t have to carry it alone. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered. 

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My therapy style is warm and compassionate, while also offering honest feedback, accountability, and “tough love” when helpful. I use a variety of evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy, tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs.

 

In a world that often demands strength without rest, therapy can be a place to exhale. You deserve support that sees you, hears you, and respects your story. When you’re ready, I invite you to reach out and begin your healing journey.

 

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​Licensed Clinician 

Laura Edwards, LPC                                      

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance and Self-Pay 

Adults 

I believe that humans are biologically and foundationally relational beings. Our species has survived through strength in numbers and nobody is meant to get through life alone. Therapy can be a place to learn how to trust that someone truly cares to support you through life's most daunting challenges. My purpose is to challenge you to accept hard truths, find safety amongst change, and confidence to meet the next challenge because life stops for no one. 

 

Therapy with me includes integration of trauma-informed, evidence-based, and empowering approaches like EMDR, ACT, and I-CBT. You can unlearn the inaccurate, yet deeply ingrained core beliefs that form out of trauma and fear. I have experience working with adults navigating major life transitions, OCD, childhood trauma, religious trauma, and cults or cult-like environments. 

 

It takes great courage to seek help. I am dedicated to helping you discover what you want for your life by honoring your values and creating goals as a team with one purpose in mind - to get you feeling better. Fear and shame don't have to dictate how you think and navigate the world forever. There is a healed version of yourself waiting to greet you on the other side and I can't wait for you to meet them.

 

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Licensed Clinician 

Lacey Pollard, LCSW

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance and Self-Pay

Children, Teens                        

Parenting can feel hard, and being a kid learning about life for the first time can feel harder, which is why working with children, teens, parents, and their families is my passion! 

 

I am grateful to be celebrating 19 years in the field of Social Work, with almost 15 of those years spent working as a therapist, primarily with children, teens, and families.I believe two things can be true- children benefit from a safe and supportive space to explore and express themselves AND children cannot do the hard work of therapy without their caregiver investing in doing the work with them. 

 

I value the opportunity to support children and families through all their ages and stages whether this is your first time seeking guidance related to developmental concerns, finding the right path for intervention, navigating early childhood trauma including foster care or adoption related experiences, coping with separation from caregivers, adjusting to divorce or separation and co-parenting, managing blended family or high conflict family dynamics, addressing school avoidance, supporting deeply feeling or highly sensitive temperaments, helping anxious kiddos, holding space for teens as they explore their identity and rage against the machine, or collaborating with families and schools to advocate for appropriate accommodations. 

 

My style can best be described as collaborative, developmentally informed, and attachment focused. I integrate a client directed, play based, relationally focused foundation with individual skill building, parenting support, and practical suggestions to use at home to help children and families build the confidence and skills to become the healthiest and most authentic versions of themselves.

 

 My priority is to cultivate an individualized experience within a safe, responsive space where children and teens can freely express themselves, explore their realities, and challenge themselves and others. Through our work together you can rely on me to provide a transparent, unbiased, and collaborative experience rooted in honoring your child’s attachment needs. I incorporate individual, dyadic, and family sessions to support not only the child but also the relationships that shape their growth. 

 

Just like how raising children takes a village, therapy is a group project and I am honored to be a supportive member of your group. 

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Licensed Clinician 

Eboni Coats, LCSW

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance and Self-Pay

Children, Teens                        

I believe every child deserves a safe, supportive space where they feel heard, understood, and encouraged to grow. My goal is to help children build emotional resilience, develop healthy coping skills, and strengthen their confidence while partnering with families throughout the therapeutic process.

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Before transitioning into outpatient therapy, I spent several years providing crisis mental health services in a pediatric emergency department, where I worked with children, adolescents, and families experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral challenges, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, emotional dysregulation, and other mental health concerns. This experience taught me the importance of meeting children and families with compassion while creating practical, individualized plans that support lasting change.

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I enjoy helping children navigate big emotions, adjust to life changes, improve communication, and develop skills that support success at home, at school, and in their relationships. I believe parents and caregivers are an essential part of the healing process and strive to create a collaborative environment where families feel supported every step of the way.

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My hope is that each child leaves therapy feeling more confident, capable, and empowered to face life’s challenges while knowing they have a trusted adult in their corner.

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Licensed Clinician 

Amanda Schuessler, LMFT 

Chesapeake & Virtual - Insurance and Self-Pay

Children, Teens, Couples & Families                        

I believe therapy should be personal to you and your unique needs. My goal is to work alongside you to understand the patterns in your life that may no longer be serving you and to find tools that help you move toward the life and relationships you want. As a systems therapist, I believe that what we work on in therapy needs to make sense in your everyday life. I often think of therapy as finding the missing puzzle pieces—together, we can explore what may be missing and find ways to support your mental health and well-being.

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I take a humanistic and integrative approach to therapy. Therapy doesn't have to feel stiff or overly clinical. We may laugh together, connect authentically around a difficult experience, or simply take the time to make sense of something that has been difficult to understand. I want you to feel comfortable bringing your whole self into the room and know that you can talk openly about whatever you are experiencing. I am also transparent about my therapeutic process. I want you to understand why I am using a particular intervention or approach because I believe therapy is more meaningful when you understand the "why" behind the work. I like to know why things work—and I enjoy sharing that knowledge with my clients.

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Over the past 13 years, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals, couples, and families across a wide range of experiences and backgrounds. I work with children of all ages using play therapy, creative arts therapy, and parent coaching, as well as with couples and families who want to improve communication and create healthier relationships at home. With individuals, I work with concerns including trauma, anxiety, interpersonal relationship struggles, and patterns or habits they would like to change.

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I am particularly passionate about working with people who have experienced childhood trauma, neurodivergent individuals, and military members and their families. I also have extensive experience supporting couples and families affected by domestic violence, as well as working with LGBTQ+ individuals and families, cross-cultural families, and military communities.

My integrative approach allows me to draw from multiple therapeutic models and tailor treatment to the person or family sitting in front of me. My training and experience include creative arts therapy, play therapy, Internal Family Systems, The Gottman Method, experiential and structural therapy, solution-focused therapy, neuropsychology, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), among others.

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I am glad you are here. I believe there is no single approach to therapy that works for everyone, and we will work together to find what works for you. I use evidence-based approaches while also bringing my experience and authenticity as a human being into the therapeutic relationship. You are the expert on your own life and what you need. My role is to help you understand yourself, discover your strengths, and find the tools that fit you best.

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Chesapeake 

238 S. Battlefield Blvd

Ste 200 (on second floor of the Truist Bank)

Chesapeake, VA 23322

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(757)330-2439

admin@chesapeakedragonfly.com

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Office Hours

Mon - Thur: 8am - 5pm

Friday: 8am - 12pm

​​Saturday: closed

​Sunday: closed

Session Hours

(days/times vary by provider)

Mon - Fri: 8am - 7pm

​​Saturday: 8am - 1pm

​Sunday: closed

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Insurances accepted: Dragonfly providers are in network with Sentara commercial products (previously Optima), Aetna, BCBS, UHC, Anthem and Tricare (Certified Out of Network)

Please contact us for out of network and self-pay options

Dragonfly Counseling and Consulting 2026

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