Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Alexandria, VA covered by Aetna

I have a passion for helping those in need find their inner strength and resilience. We all have it within us to find solutions to our problems; sometimes we just need some guidance. I offer an integrative, client-centered approach to counseling. I place considerable value in building a strong therapeutic relationship. Just one small step is all it takes to begin the process of change. Whatever is going on, let's explore together!!!

As a licensed therapist with over three decades of experience, I am dedicated to making a difference in the well being of my clients' lives. Over the years my clients have included individuals, couples, and Family from diverse backgrounds, spanning various ages, and life stages. My areas of expertise include: depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, life and work stress, parenting issues, conflict management, and issues relating to family life. I approach therapy from a humanistic and interpersonal perspective, as well as use strategies from cognitive behavioral theory. I am compassionate, strive to be a supportive person in my clients' lives. I approach every client feeling eager to get to know them so we can address what they need from their therapy experience .

When navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, or trauma, it is easy to assume that something is fundamentally wrong with you. If you are struggling with low self-concept, anger, or substance usage, you might view these obstacles as personal failures. My goal is to completely shift that narrative. Together, we will look at what is going on with you, rather than what is wrong with you.

Since 1993, I have spent over 30 years helping individuals recognize their innate strengths and leverage them to overcome life’s hardest hurdles. Throughout my career, I have developed deep clinical expertise, obtaining specific, formal certifications across multiple states to ensure you receive highly credentialed and adaptive care.

Taking that first step to reach out for support can feel intimidating. Because of this, our introductory session is designed to be a safe, collaborative space. We will explore what is currently going well, examine the challenges you are experiencing, and align on your expectations for therapy. My primary objective is to establish an empowering professional relationship built entirely on your strengths.

I am Stanley Okeyemi, the founder of Brighter Light Behavioral Health Services. I am currently licensed as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) in Texas, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Iowa, Washington, North Carolina, Nebraska, Virginia and New York. I have been working in the mental health industry for 16 years, but licensed as a PMHNP for four years, with a vast amount of experience and affiliations with over 40 hospitals/clinics combined across the USA

Mental health issues may be difficult to discuss with loved ones, especially if there are cultural barriers. As an Asian American, I experienced the phenomenon of feeling like I had two separate identities. I often felt like an outsider as I questioned “who am I?” While there are many cultural barriers we must face with mental health, you don’t have to face them alone! I can help you navigate your experiences with cultural identification, family communication, children’s mental health, (e.g. depression, anxiety, and/or behavioral concern), parenting, and diversity.

Hello, I'm Annisha Dunaway. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I come to this work not only from training but from a lifetime of experience—as a veteran, military spouse, mother, daughter, and sister. I understand firsthand how challenging life can be—how deeply we all need support that is compassionate, judgment-free, and motivating. My goal is to create a space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered to keep moving forward. Your story matters here, and I’m here to walk alongside you—no judgment, just honest, supportive partnership.

Welcome! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to helping individuals find healing through a well-rounded approach to mental wellness. True healing comes from caring for the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free space where you can be listened to, valued, and empowered to take an active role in your mental health journey. I have years of experience caring for individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, psychosis, substance use disorders, and other complex mental health conditions. Mental health is more than managing symptoms. Mental well-being is closely connected to physical health, relationships, purpose, and daily habits. Together, we will explore how these areas influence your overall wellness and develop a treatment plan that supports lasting growth. This may include medication management when appropriate, education, supportive therapy, healthy lifestyle strategies, stress management, sleep optimization, and building practical coping skills that fit your life.

I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2017 and my Master of Social Work in 2019. My clinical experience spans a wide range of settings, including medical social work, OBGYN/postpartum care, community mental health, emergency services crisis intervention and stabilization, pre-liver transplant support, and child welfare. These experiences have given me a deep appreciation for the resilience people show during some of their most challenging moments.

I believe that all people have the innate capacity to heal. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel empowered to share their stories and process trauma in a way that fosters growth, clarity, and emotional well-being. I utilize trauma-informed approaches such as EMDR and parts work. I focus on teaching practical, effective coping skills that clients can use in their daily lives.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who provides a supportive, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space for adults who are navigating life’s challenges. My approach is collaborative and focused on helping clients feel heard, understood, and empowered as they work toward meaningful change. I also offer Christian counseling in a way that supports both emotional healing and spiritual growth.

I believe therapy is a safe place in which we can be heard, supported, and understood. Together, we will work to uncover your strengths and find new ways to approach life's challenges.