LGBT therapists in Stephens City, VA

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over six years of experience in behavioral health and more than three years in clinical practice. I specialize in treating trauma, eating disorders, and identity-related stress through a culturally responsive and trauma-informed lens. As a Black woman therapist, I value holding space that honors the fullness of who you are—including your cultural identity, generational experiences, and lived realities. I bring a steady, compassionate presence and a deep respect for your autonomy and truth.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental healthcare. With a strong background in both nursing and psychiatric care, I am passionate about reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and empowering individuals to reclaim their quality of life. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders, sleep disorder, cognitive disorder, and trauma across the lifespan. I have experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings and have a strong understanding of evidence-based practices for treating mental illness in adults.

Ka'ra Johnson is a LCSW-C, LCSW licensed in MD, VA, DC, and OH. She received both her Masters in Mental Health Counseling and Masters of Social Work from Capella University. She specializes in treating Trauma, Mood Disorders, Forensic Clients, Crisis Interventions and Life Transitions. Her modalities of therapy are: Trauma informed CBT, REBT and Motivational Interviewing.

Meet your therapist: I have 8+ years of experience in the field of counseling. It is truly my passion. My favorite thing is seeing a client overcome a challenge they once said would be "impossible." (Hint: Almost nothing is impossible with the right support!) I form a personal and intentional relationship with each client and I will walk with you through moments that are uncomfortable or difficult. Outside of work I can be found cooking and spending time on the farm with my three fantastic dogs.

With 8 years of experience in the mental health field, I firmly believe in the parity of mental and physical health. Life often leads us into dark tunnels, and my role in therapy is to guide individuals toward the light at the end of those tunnels.

Dr. Rivera employs an integrative style that focuses on the individual's sleep, diet, physical and mental fitness. He enjoys working in particular with weight loss, men's wellness, de-prescription from psychotropic medications, and detox from long-term substance use: tobacco, alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines. Furthermore, he specializes in the diagnosis and management of attention, mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders.