LGBT therapists in Lynchburg, VA

My name is Amanda, and my practice was founded based on the power of connection, empathy, and grace. I really believe in the therapeutic relationship and enjoy walking alongside my clients. My background is social work, as I have truly always valued helping people. I received my bachelor’s degree in social work, as well as my master’s degree in social work. I have experience working within the hospital setting, within community mental health, within the court and administrative system, as well as working within the health department. Additionally, I have experience working within residential treatment settings, working with high acuity clients. My true passion is mental health, and I am blessed to be able to focus my intentions on helping to serve clients in my community. . I enjoy working with clients on a variety of areas that include anxiety, depression, life adjustment, relationships, family dynamics, trauma, and obsessive compulsive disorder.

I am a wife and mother of two children ages 12 and 14 yo and two dogs. I have lived in DC Metropolitan area for most of my life. I have experienced acculturation and loss of a parent due to cancer. I was raised amongst entrepreneurs, politicians, doctors and lawyers. Despite the challenges, I've found common grounds with people from all walks of life.

I'm not a regular therapist—I'm a cool therapist. You'll likely find me using humor in sessions because it's one of my favorite coping skills (when it's appropriate). I strive to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where you can feel comfortable being yourself.

Helping others has always been my passion, and I love supporting clients as they create meaningful changes in their lives. I also value learning and believe that knowledge can be a powerful tool for growth, so don't be surprised if I recommend a book or two during our time together.

I specialize in working with clients experiencing anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, substance use concerns, burnout, and adjustment disorders or other life transitions. I also love supporting new moms as they navigate the perinatal period and the unique challenges that can come with it.

I’m Dr. Gina Sissoko, a licensed clinical psychologist passionate about helping women—especially Black women, immigrant women, and high-achieving professionals—heal from trauma, manage stress, and create lives that feel balanced and authentic.

My style is warm, collaborative, and grounded in both science and cultural awareness. I specialize in supporting women navigating burnout, relationship challenges, and the effects of racism or gender bias at work. In our sessions, I create a space where you can slow down, feel seen, and rebuild confidence from the inside out.

I have over 8 1/2 years of experience helping adults, children, and families learn how to heal and grow from dysfunction, trauma, addiction, and mental health issues of all kinds. I have worked with people from ages 3-80 years old so I have a multitude of experiences with all kinds of mental health issues including (trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, LGBTQIA+ related issues, and more). I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who has worked in community mental health and online.

I have a holistic, creative approach to counseling, focusing not just on talk-therapy, but mind-body connection and our network of supports and relationships. I have worked in non-profit and community counseling centers and have experience with all ages of clients as well as multiple levels of abilities. My education background is not only in clinical mental health counseling but also peace and justice and art studies.

I have been a counselor for more than 30 years. I remain passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and believe that genuine caring is an essential element to an effective counseling relationship. Over the years I have worked with clients with significant trauma and loss. I consider it a privilege to stand with another individual as he or she resolves great pain. I specialize in treating clients with trauma, relationship issues, and borderline personality disorder.

I received my bachelor's from James Madison University and a Master of Arts from Lesley University in Expressive Therapy.

I received my Master's Degree in Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University. I provided community-based mental healthcare and school-based mental healthcare before beginning my practice. I enjoy working with young people and adults to identify goals, harness strengths, and manage barriers to success.