Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Manassas, 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!!!

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.

I’m Dr. Carly Ellman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and sports social worker with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals, families, and athletes across a wide range of life transitions.

My therapy style is warm, honest, collaborative, and grounded in compassion. I believe you are the expert of your own life, and my role is to help you build clarity, confidence, and tools that support your wellbeing both inside and outside the therapy room.

Whether you’re navigating anxiety, burnout, life transitions, relationship challenges, sport-related stress, or a desire for deeper self-understanding, you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental place to explore and grow.

My background includes clinical practice, college teaching, and working directly with youth, parents, and coaches to strengthen mental health, resilience, and relationships through evidence-based approaches.

I’ve also earned a Sports Social Work Certificate and serve on the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee Mental Health Registry, where I work with athletes navigating performance pressure, identity, anxiety, and stress.

I am a compassionate, collaborative therapist who values the whole person. I work from a strengths-based perspective and believe that people have the capacity to heal, grow, and create meaningful change when provided with a safe and supportive environment. I honor each client’s lived experiences, and I strive to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered. My role is to meet you where you are, help you explore what’s important to you, and support you in developing the tools and insight you need for lasting change.

I have been a therapist for over 50 years. I have a great deal of experience and have been in my own therapy so I know both sides of therapy. I am a Masters Level Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Four years ago I was exposed to Richard Schwartz and fell in love with his Internal Family Systems Model. I felt this is the model I’ve been looking for all my life. That’s the model I use in working with clients.