Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Richmond, VA

Hi there—I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University. I work with adults facing a range of challenges, including anxiety, past trauma, relationship struggles, and substance use. My style is warm, supportive, and down-to-earth. I use tools from CBT, DBT, and other evidence-based approaches, but most importantly, I meet you where you are—no pressure, no judgment.

I believe therapy works best when it feels like a real, human connection. You don’t have to be in crisis to reach out, and you don’t have to have everything figured out to begin. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just trying to understand yourself better, I’m here to help you explore what’s going on and find new ways to cope and move forward.

On a personal note, I know what it’s like to go through hard seasons and come out the other side. That lived experience helps me show up with empathy and honesty. If you're looking for someone who will listen without judgment and walk with you as you work toward real, lasting change—I'm here.

I believe therapy works best when clients feel safe, heard, and genuinely supported. I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative environment where clients can show up as their authentic selves. My approach is compassionate, direct when needed, and focused on helping clients build practical tools for everyday life while also exploring deeper emotional patterns and experiences.

I enjoy working with individuals navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship concerns, self-esteem challenges, stress, identity exploration, and emotional overwhelm. I am passionate about supporting LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC clients and creating an affirming therapeutic space where clients feel respected and understood.

I understand that starting therapy can feel vulnerable, and my goal is to meet clients where they are while helping them move toward healing, clarity, and meaningful growth.

Hello, my name is Benjamin Watkins. I look forward to working with you to make the positive changes you desire in your life. I have worked in the field since I was 19, starting as a Mentor. Helping others is my passion in life. I worked with children, adolescents, and parents in the foster care system, overcoming trauma and developing positive attachments. I have worked with a variety of issues.

I’m a licensed mental health therapist with over 10 years of experience working with individuals across a range of settings. I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and relationship concerns, with additional experience in trauma and self-esteem work. My background includes training in evidence-based approaches, and I’m committed to providing a supportive, nonjudgmental space. I view therapy as a collaborative process focused on helping you create meaningful, lasting change.

When your health changes, your whole life can change.

Maybe you don’t feel like yourself anymore.

You may be living with a chronic illness, unpredictable symptoms, pain, fatigue, or a condition that other people can’t see. You may still be working, caring for your family, and doing everything you’re expected to do—but you’re exhausted from trying to keep up with a life that no longer fits your body.

Perhaps you’re grieving the person you used to be, struggling with anxiety about the future, feeling guilty when you need to rest or say no, or wondering how to maintain your relationships while your needs are changing.

You don’t have to choose between accepting your new reality and still wanting a meaningful life.

Therapy can help you:

• Adjust to changes in your health and abilities.
• Grieve the life, roles, or identity you may have lost.
• Manage anxiety about symptoms and the future.
• Develop a healthier relationship with limitations, rest, and self-care.
• Navigate changes in work, family, friendships, and relationships.
• Reconnect with who you are beyond your diagnosis.
• Find meaning and purpose when life looks different than you expected.

You are more than your diagnosis.

Together, we can work toward a life that feels meaningful—not necessarily the life you originally planned, but one that fits who you are now.

As a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) who has been practicing for over 10 years, I can promise support, empathy, and engagement. Additionally, I have formal training in trauma treatments, TEAM-CBT, RLT couples counseling, and years of experience with several other approaches. I enjoy working with individuals and couples, i am an LGBTQIA+ ally, and i love my job!

My path into psychiatry is both professional and personal. I moved to the U.S. alone at 17 while navigating complex PTSD and periods of misdiagnosis, which shaped how I understand mental health today. I began with a bachelor’s degree in psychology at Nankai University, then trained as a nurse and nurse practitioner at Charles R. Drew University and Purdue University.

Over the past 7 years, I’ve worked across medical and mental health settings, developing an approach that balances clinical precision with individualized care. I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and complex PTSD, particularly for individuals who feel stuck or haven’t found relief in traditional treatment.

I’m licensed in California, Virginia, New York, Washington, and Oregon, and provide care via telehealth.

I bring an open mind and an open heart when working with my clients. I want to help my clients understand that they are not a problem, but the problem is the problem. I respect my clients and work hard to make them feel heard. I work to support my clients in their circumstances and meet them where they are. I have training in EMDR and narrative therapy. I endeavor to provide treatment that is trauma informed. I use CBT skills as well as other interventions.