Meet Our Counseling Staff

Afua Ayim, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Each patient is a unique individual and should be treated as such. Work together with the patient to achieve patient’s desired goal while respecting the patient’s preferences.  Provide patients and families with accurate and detailed information about their diagnosis to empower them to participate in their care.

Education 

Specialties

• Ages 18+
• Medication Management

Alise Lindsey, LPC

Counseling is a safe space to be your authentic self. It is an opportunity to enhance the skills you desire to improve your overall wellbeing and relationships with others. When working with me, you will understand you are control of the process and my role is to facilitate progress. Ultimately, counseling is about you; your needs, your style of learning and growth. After our work together, you will be empowered, aware and capable of maintaining your emotional and social wellbeing.

I utilize a CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) approach, aiding you in understanding how your thoughts impact your feelings and actions. Once you are able to understand the rogue messages your brain sends based upon past negative life experiences, you will be better able to control them. I also utilize a person-centered approach, meeting you where you are; meaning we engage in activities and address concerns at a pace that is meant to help you, rather than overwhelm you. Although CBT is my preferred approach, I utilize interventions from other theories that prove useful, as my purpose is to help you improve, therefore, I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.

I have over 15 years of professional experience in the mental health field. My professional experience has been diverse, allowing me first-hand experience with the courts, social services, foster care, community-based counseling, therapeutic day treatment counseling, inpatient, domestic violence and sexual assault survivors and perpetrators, substance abuse counseling and mental health evaluations. When I’m not working, I enjoy reading with my book club, writing, listening to music, going to concerts and traveling with my family and friends.

Beata Sims, PMHNP, ARNP, MSN

Philosophy of Care

Beata Sims is a double Board-Certified Advance Nurse Practitioner. She launched her career in 2007 and received her Master’s Degree in Primary Care and a Post Master’s Degree in Psychiatric Mental Health.

Her approach is based on integrative psychiatry including

• Prescribing medications
• Motivational, person-centered therapy
• Complementary medicine

She enjoys working with a variety of age groups and provides 100% confidential and non-judgmental environment.

She is licensed to practice statewide and conduct visits by a video call from the safety and comfort of your home. Telepsychiatry makes it possible to get support from anywhere.

Beata has helped thousands of people to regain their health with appropriate medication and therapy.

She speaks English and Polish.

“Life is like a camera. Just focus on what’s important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things don’t work out, just take another shot.” Richard Branson

Education

Master’s Degree in Primary Care
Post Master’s Degree in Psychiatric Mental Health.

Specialties

• Life Transitions
• Anxiety and Stress
• Depression and Low Self-Esteem
• Bipolar and Personality Disorder
• Trauma and PTSD

Brent Burhite, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Brent Burhite is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Virginia who has over 24 years of healthcare experience.  He has worked as a nursing assistant, EMT, Registered Nurse and PMHNP.  He specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, sleep disturbances and helping individuals cope with overall life stressors.  He completed his Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Minot State University in 2005 and his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences in 2018 and is currently serving in the United States Air Force.  

Brent emphasizes the use of evidence based psychopharmacology coupled with cognitive behavioral strategies to treat mental health symptoms.  He strongly believes in a holistic approach to mental health care and stresses interprofessional collaboration with peers to meet unique client needs.  He is a firm believer that medication management is only a portion of treating mental health concerns and will help clients utilize all resources available to meet their treatment objectives.  

Brent seeks to form an authentic relationship with his clients in order to achieve therapeutic goals.  He understands that building a strong client/provider relationship is key to successful treatment and strives to create an honest, open and comfortable atmosphere to foster growth and healing. 

Education

Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences
Doctor of Nursing Practice

Specialties

• Medication Management
• Depression
• Anxiety
• PTSD
• Mood disorders
• Bipolar Disorders
• Personality Disorders
• Sleep disturbances
• Stress management
• Life transitions
• Relationship issues
• Grief & Loss
• Military issues

Bridget Famogun, PMHNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

Bridget U. Famogun is a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science degree as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) PMHNP, and she is Board Certified. Before becoming PMHNP, Bridget was a Psychiatric Registered Nurse for eight years with a history of working in the hospital & clinical Trial care setting. Bridget completed her Master's in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Walden University and graduated with honors. 

Bridget earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia, in 2010, and has worked in the nursing field since then.

Bridget is skilled in Psychiatric Assessment, Psychiatric Diagnoses and Medication Management, Health Promotion, Crisis Intervention, Clinical Supervision, and Healthcare Management.

Bridget has a passion for working with vulnerable populations. She is a firm believer in a holistic approach to treating disturbances in mental health that can involve medication management, psychotherapy, and alternative treatment modalities. Additionally, Bridget is interested in working with patients with eating disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, and talk therapy. Moreover, she is proficient in working with adult ADD, psychotic, mood, self-esteem, stress management, anger management, and anxiety disorders.

Bridget's main goal and focus as a PMHNP at Thriveworks is to grow and connect her knowledge and understanding of the brain's biology and interconnections, with the neuropathology of psychiatric illnesses and psychotherapy and prescriptive practice.

Education

Walden University
Master's in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Specialties

• Medication Management
• Psych Testing
• Autism
• Eating Disorders
• Mood Disorders
• Personality Disorders
• Schizophrenia and Psychotic Disorders
• CBT

Camille Brenke, PMHNP

**Camille offers services in Spanish.

Philosophy of Care

Camille is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Virginia who has experience working with children and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, psychosis and dementia. She completed her Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing at Virginia Commonwealth University. She also holds a minor in Spanish and certificate in Community Engagement.

Camille is a culturally sensitive and queer-affirming provider. She has a special interest in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders as well as alternative and complementary medicines.

Camille seeks to establish a genuine relationship with you and collaborate on creating a treatment plan that is both evidence based and centered on you. It will focus on meeting your goals and improving quality of life.

Education

Virginia Commonwealth University
Master of Science

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Bipolar disorder
• Personality Disorders
• Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders
• Alternative and Complementary medicine

Catherine Ben-Agu, PMHNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

Catherine Ben-Agu is a board certified licensed Psychiatric Nurse practitioner in the state of Virginia who has 10 years of experience in nursing, six of which are focused in psychiatry. Catherine attended Walden University where she completed her bachelor’s degree in nursing and master’s degree in psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. Through her many years of experience, she has been able to partner with children, adolescents, adults, as well as geriatric clients who seek help with diverse psychiatric problems. Catherine specializes in facilitating significant improvement in their presenting symptoms through proper assessment, accurate diagnoses, prescriptions, treatment, and evaluation. She is experienced in various psychiatric disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, ADD, personality disorders, SUD, eating disorders, suicidal ideation, and many more. Through great interpersonal and communication skills, Catherine is able to establish trust, and communicate with clients in a therapeutic manner that upholds respect and preserves client’s dignity and autonomy. She is culturally competent, nonjudgmental, and uses compassion, empathy, and active listening in all her interaction with clients. Catherine desires to collaborate with you in a caring/therapeutic relationship aimed to provide support, assist you in building your strengths as well as meet your healthcare goals of living a healthier more fulfilling life.

Education

Walden University
Masters Degree

Specialties

• ADD/ADHD
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Depression Counseling
• Eating Disorders
• Mood Disorders
• Bipolar Disorder
• PTSD
• Christian Counseling
• CBT
• Schizophrenia Spectrum
• Anger Management
• Self-Harm

Christina Mena, Ph.D., LCP

Philosophy of Care

Perhaps you feel weighed down with the stress of daily life, have lost interest in things that used to bring you joy, or are feeling unsatisfied in your relationships. Dr. Mena believes everyone can benefit from a deeper understanding of themselves and how to better cope with life’s difficulties. She is dedicated to building strong therapeutic relationships with her clients, and strives to provide a safe and validating environment for clients to feel heard in and achieve personal growth.

Dr. Mena is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, having earned her Master’s Degree and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. She primarily utilizes a psychodynamic approach, helping adolescents and adults explore how past experiences may continue to negatively impact their current emotions and relationships. However, she believes every client’s goals and needs are unique and therefore also utilizes techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).

Taking the first step towards getting help can seem daunting, but rest assured it is a valuable investment in yourself. Dr. Mena is ready to guide you towards building a more fulfilling life in line with your goals and values.

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Life Transitions
• Relationship Issues
• Grief and Loss
• Family of Origin Issues
• Trauma/Abuse

Christina Triantafillou, LPC

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over seven years of experience in the field. I have worked with adults, children, adolescents, and families. When I began my Master’s program in counseling in 2011, I quickly discovered that this was the field I wanted to be in for the rest of my life. I believe that above all, counseling requires a solid relational foundation to promote change. It is my job to help you see the best in yourself, to take an honest look at what could help, and then to help equip you with the tools needed to see positive change in your life. I take this job seriously and strive to be the best I can every day to help others on their journey. 

I have experience providing counseling in a variety of settings including in-home counseling, outpatient offices, women’s shelters, public school, and universities. I am trained in the use of trauma-informed care, which gives me a solid understanding of how trauma can impact the way you view the world around you and communicate with others. I use this in much of my therapy practice, as well as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy. I am also trained in Motivational Interviewing, which focuses primarily on addiction concerns. I have completed the Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.

I have experience in helping individuals/families with: 

• Trauma/Abuse
• Anxiety/Panic 
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Depression
• Attachment Disorders
• Borderline Personality Disorder
• Psychosis and Psychotic Disorders
• Domestic Violence 
• Divorce and Custody 
• LGBTQ+  Concerns
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Addictions and Substance Abuse
• Self-Esteem 
• Adolescent Concerns 
• Grief/Loss
• Multicultural and Minority Concerns
• Anger Management
• Relationship Issues 
• Self-Harm/Thoughts of Suicide

This list is not exhaustive and I always believe in growing and learning more about how to help others. 

Corrie Minges, LPC

Dr. Corrie Minges is a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults. Since 2006, Corrie has worked as a counselor in Louisiana, Kansas, and Virginia. She has over ten years of experience and is skilled in working diverse age groups and socio-economic populations, including service members, military families, and dual-diagnosis clients. Corrie has had the privilege of working with a wide range of client issues and concerns such as:

• ADHD
• Anger Management
• Anxiety
• Attachment Disorder
• Behavioral Concerns
• Depression
• Divorce
• Domestic Violence
• Grief and Loss
• LGBTQQIA+
• Major Life Transitions
• Military Related Stress
• PTSD/Trauma/Abuse
• Relationships
• Self-Harm/Suicidal ideation
• Self-Esteem
• Severe Mental Illness
• Sexual Abuse/Assault

Corrie practices counseling from a humanist perspective. She firmly believes that every client is the expert on their lives. Corrie provides a safe, non-judgmental space for the client to explore and find the direction that is best for his or her life. She views counseling as a partnership and works to tailor her counseling sessions to best meet the needs of her clients. 

Education:

2012 Ph.D. Counselor Education
University of New Orleans

2006 M.A. Psychological Counseling
Nicholls State University

2004 B.S. Family and Consumer Sciences
Child, Family, and Social Services
Nicholls State University

Crystal Bland, NCC, LPC

Crystal Bland is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in working with children, adolescents and adults who are coping with depression, anxiety, and general phase of life challenges.  She received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology form Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA. In Richmond, her desire to help became ignited as she assisted in many volunteer efforts to help others throughout the city. She earned her Master’s degree from Old Dominion University in Counselor Education; Mental Health.  She began her professional journey in 2012 as a community based counselor. Throughout that journey, she gained experienced with Mental Health Skill building, Intensive In home, Therapeutic Day Treatment and outpatient therapy. She have serviced individuals in schools, community, and various juvenile detentions in the Hampton Roads Area. 

Her theoretical approach is rather eclectic and integrative in general.  However, Person Centered could be considered as the platform in which she practice on.  She believes in creating a safe space for the client, creating an opportunity for them to be their authentic selves is important. Alongside Person -Centered practices, she may also use Cognitive-Behavioral approaches. Solution-Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing when appropriate.  She believes that rapport is essential to the therapeutic process. In which, she provides a safe , nonjudgmental space with openness and transparency to aid in the therapeutic process. She believes in empowering individuals so that they can take the driver seat of their lives and she would love to be a passenger.

Crystal Miller-Williams, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Crystal Miller-Williams is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary and psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. Over the course of ten years of medical practice, Crystal has had the privilege of working in many practice areas, including primary care, family practice, gynecology, and internal medicine.

Crystal prefers the patient centered approach, along with the integration of  therapy, daily physical movement and improved sleep practices as foundations for care. Overall Crystal tends to be more conservative in her prescribing practices, especially in regards to prescribing controlled substances such as benzodiazepines.

Education

University of Michigan-Flint
MSN

Specialties

• ADHD
• Depression
• Bipolar Disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Medication Management

Faith McCloud, LCSW

I received my Bachelors Degree of Arts from Loyola University in New Orleans, LA in 1979 and my Master’s Degree in Social Work from Tulane University in New Orleans, LA in 1980 in Clinical Work with Children and Families Specializing in Mental Health. I am currently employed with Thriveworks in Private Practice as a LCSW providing assessments and diagnoses, working with adults, children, couples, families, group work, telehealth and other areas of mental health and substance abuse treatment as needed.

Over the past several years I have worked directly with Severely Mentally Ill adults and young adults as a Care Coordinator in addition to working directly with Addictions Recovery and Treatment through Magellan Health and VA Premier Healthcare. I have a long history of working with Community Mental Health with children, young adults, families, schools and the Judicial system. I see my role as a change agent by assisting people in helping to improve the quality of their lives. I see change as a Journey to a better, stronger you.

I have worked directly with Active Duty Army, Army National Guard, Active Duty Navy, Marines and Active Duty Air Force providing marital counseling, support to victims of sexual assault, Family Advocacy Support, treatment assessments for the Medical Evaluation Board (MEB), crisis stabilization, emergency room assessments, case management, telehealth and case consultations. I have worked with a variety of populations with the same goal in mind to assisting people to overcome the stress, anxiety, depression and roadblocks that present as pitfalls in succeeding in everyday life.

Hopefully, choosing a Therapist that is a good fit is the start to a better you.

Fawn Workman, APRN, FNP-C, PHMNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

Fawn Workman is a dual-board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in the state of Virginia, and has more than 20 years of nursing experience in providing biopsychosocial care to patients and families of all ages and stages. Fawn’s experience as both a ‘physical’ and ‘mental’ health NP assists her in her holistic approach to care.  She completed her Bachelors in Nursing at Liberty University, and both her Master’s in Nursing degree (FNP) and post-master’s psychiatry specialization (PMHNP) at Frontier Nursing University. 

Fawn desires to work with you to develop a plan for treatment. She prescribes medication, when appropriate, as an add-on to non-medication therapies. These may include (as indicated and accepted by you): counseling and behavioral therapies; lifestyle, social, spiritual, and self-care needs; consideration of possible underlying medical/ health needs and conditions that can contribute to symptoms (in collaboration with your medical care providers); meditation/ prayer; and other therapies. 

Fawn recognizes that most people, at some point, have rough patches in life. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness. She encourages you to reach out and discuss the issues that are most important to you on your path towards mental wellness, and together help you realize and strengthen your abilities, and work towards meeting your goals.

Education

Frontier Nursing University
Master's in Nursing and Post Master's Psychiatry Specialization

Specialties

• Medication management
• Depression
• Anxiety
• PTSD
• Women’s mental health
• Special interest in Tourette’s Syndrome

Germaine Kelley-Pope, PMHNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

Germaine is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certified to provide mental health and substance abuse services to patients across the lifespan. She has over 12 years of experience working as a nurse in the mental health specialty. She has special interest in mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD and substance use disorders. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing and her Master of Science in Nursing from Virginia Commonwealth University. She is a member of American Psychiatric Nurses Association, the American Nurses Association, and the Sigma Theta Tau International Honors Society.

As a dedicated and compassionate provider, she provides patient centered care that respects each patient's unique physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and environmental strengths and challenges. She works with patients to explore the root cause of problems and the best treatment plan for meeting the patient’s goal. This can include medications, psychotherapy or combination of both.

Life is full of challenges that can be difficult to overcome without inner strength, effective coping skills, and a good support system. Germaine strives to provide every patient with the support, skills, and unconditional respect they need as they embark on their journey to wellness and recovery.

Education

Virginia Commonwealth University
Master's in Nursing

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Depression
• ADHD
• Sleep Disorder

Kashorie Fields, LMFT, LPC, CSAC

My name is Kashorie R. Fields and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and licensed professional counselor. I attended Liberty University where I received my Masters of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. As a professional counselor committed to inspiring healthy lifestyles and promoting healthy behaviors to optimize mental health, I am prepared to immediately contribute to achieving a healthier mental health community. I consistently deliver comprehensive mental health counseling services and educate clients in family. individual and group settings, while adhering to federal, state, and facility/site regulations that govern mental health counseling and treatment programs. In addition, I am known for delivering thorough and compliant clinical documentation, and establishing attainable and measurable treatment goals. I enjoy witnessing transformations after delivering solution-focused therapy to address social, medical, emotional, economic, and mental health challenges. With exceptional interpersonal and counseling skills, meticulous clinical documentation, and commitment to establishing and achieving focused treatment goals.

Katherine Hughes, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Katherine Hughes is a dual, board-certified Nurse practitioner with specialties in family and psychiatric mental health. She received her undergraduate nursing degree from Georgetown University in 1996, her masters in family specialty in 2012 from George Mason University, her post master's certificate in psychiatric mental health specialty in 2019 from George Mason University and her doctorate from Maryville University in 2015.

Katherine's goal is to build a collaborative relationship with patients, listen to their unique needs and implement a plan that affects positive change. She utilizes a combination of medication management and psychotherapy when necessary, implementing cognitive behavioral, mindfulness and solution focused therapy techniques. As a nurse practitioner, Katherine looks at and values the whole person when considering treatment goals.

Education

George Mason University
Maryville University

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Bipolar Disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Dementia

Kathryn Alberti, LPC

I believe that every individual can get through difficulties that arise in life and sometimes we need some help. I am passionate about providing a safe space for you to talk about your story.

Whether you are grieving the loss of a relationship, struggling to communicate to the important people in your life more effectively or you are unsure about how to build a stronger relationship with your child. With compassion and respect we will unearth what is getting in the way of what you want.

I use a personable and direct approach to provide solution focused counseling.

Kimberly Green, LPC

Kimberly Green is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in behavior modification, client-centered, rational-emotive, family systems, and brief solution-focused therapy.  She has over 15 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse field working in a variety of settings with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and veterans.  She also works as an Addiction Therapist at the Hampton VA Medical Center. She is a strong advocate of empowering her clients and to encouraging them to be a part of the solution and not a part of the problem.  She believes in treating her clients with respect, fairness, and compassion. 

Kimberly holds a Master of Arts in Counseling and a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications from Norfolk State University.  She also attended Old Dominion University and Liberty University. Kimberly is a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor.  She began her counseling career as a Counselor with the Norfolk Community Services Board in the Norfolk City Jail. She later gained employment as a Dual Diagnosis case manager and counselor which is where she gained experience helping clients diagnosed with Schizophrenia Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Major Depressive Disorder, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).  

Kimberly was born and raised in Smithfield, VA.  Her parents instilled in her to do unto others as you shall have others do unto you.   Kimberly loves spending time with her husband on their motorcycle and they have traveled to numerous locations to include Niagara Falls, CA, Clemson, SC to experience the total eclipse of the sun and to New York City, NY.  She also loves to spending time with her children and grandchildren. She is also a member of the Portsmouth Alumnae Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority, Inc. where she chairs the Physical and Mental Health Committee. Her favorite past time is entertaining family and friends at their home and working in her garden.

Krystin McAdams, M.ED, LPC

I am a dedicated and results-oriented counseling professional bringing expertise developing comprehensive treatment plans. I began my journey in the counseling field in 2012; and have a passion for listening to those who feel no one will listen to them; and that no one understands how they are feeling. Life doesn’t come with instructions, and sometimes going through it on your own can be tedious. However, I believe therapy can result in change and transformation. I am committed to working with my clients as they uncover what it is they believe and want for themselves.  

I have experience in Mental Health Skill Building, Intensive Inhome Services, Therapeutic Day Treatment, and Professional School Counseling. I have worked with a variety of populations with varying challenges such as social/emotional deficits and mental illnesses (including but not limited to ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression). 

I utilize  techniques from Brief Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy

I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment within the therapeutic process that can lead to personal growth. I look forward to being apart of your journey.

Linda Modelfino, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Linda Modelfino is a psychiatric nurse practitioner in the state of Virginia who has  been working in healthcare for over 26 years. Linda’s background consists of  acute psychiatry in a hospital setting, ICU, management and education. She  assists her clients to overcome their difficulties with depression, anxiety, mood  instability, trauma, ADHD, behavioral and other disorders. She obtained her bachelor's degree in nursing from VCU/MCV and her Master’s degree in Nursing  from Wilkes University. 

Linda doesn’t just provide medication management to her patient’s but also seeks  to get to know her patients and understand what’s important to them, their  struggles, where they have been and assist them with helping to obtain their  goals for the future. She believes in a biopsychosocial approach to help patients  get to their highest level of functioning and life satisfaction. 

Life is always throwing curveballs, don’t struggle alone. Let’s collaborate together  and help your child who is struggling in school, your depression that keeps you  from being able to function or your mood instability that is causing problems  within the family. 

Education

Wilkes University
Master's in Nursing

Specialties

• Schizophrenia 
• Insomnia 
• Autism Spectrum Disorder 
• Personality Disorders 
• Trauma/PTSD 
• Adjustment disorders 
• Depression/Anxiety 
• ADHD 
• Bipolar disorders
• Child psychiatry

Mario Barnes, LCSW

Mario Barnes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and adults who are coping with depression, anxiety, relationships issues, and major life transitions or challenges. He has had 9 years of experience working in the mental health field and also has a background in school social work enabling him to provide his expertise regarding the educational system. Mario received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Christopher Newport University and a Master of Social Work degree from Norfolk State University. He works well with individuals experiencing difficulties with identifying and regulating negative thoughts and emotions. Additionally, he works with families and couples experiencing relationship challenges as well as individual struggling with substance abuse.

Mario’s approach is rooted in bringing awareness to the connections between thoughts, feelings, and actions using a number of different techniques tailored to each individual. He aims to help individuals develop a deeper understanding of themselves at all levels, which can often lead to improved self-management and self-awareness. He strives to help individuals learn practical skills to incorporate into their everyday lives. Mario is skilled at tailoring therapy to meet the unique needs of each person he meets by drawing on their strengths to enhance their personal growth and empowerment.

Mario utilizes a Person-Centered approach to therapy, which allows for collaborative problem solving, questioning, and personal exploration. Additionally, he has strong foundations in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Choice Theory. Mario seeks to assist individuals in regaining power and regain control over their lives through personal accountability and evaluating choices, as he is a firm proponent for individuals’ right to self-determination. He believes in the power of unconditional positive regard, compassion, understanding, respect, and empathy.

Meghan Rise, PMHNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

Meghan Rise is a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Virginia who has been working in psychiatric care since 2013. Meghan has worked in many different capacities as a mental health provider including working with adults, children, and families across the lifespan. She received her Bachelor of Science and her Master of Science in Nursing from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia. 

Meghan is highly experienced in medication management and treatment for clients struggling with depression, anxiety, and mood disorders, as well as a variety of individual mental health disorders. She believes medication is a tool to help cope with mental health disorders and can be highly effective when paired with other treatments such as therapy. 

Meghan’s strength is listening to your needs and finding solutions to help meet your goals. She aims to build a warm and respectful partnership with each of her clients. She looks forward to working with you!

Education

Virginia Commonwealth University
Master's in Nursing

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety disorders (Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, and PTSD)
• Bipolar and Mood Disorders 
• ADHD 
• Postpartum Depression / Anxiety
• Grief / Adjustment Disorders

Philip Burke, LPC

Do you find yourself in a rut, having difficulties adjusting to a new circumstance, or feel your situation is hopeless? Do you frequently worry about where your life is headed? Do you find yourself afraid to face situations that others do not? Are you afraid to discuss these things for fear of being judged or misunderstood? If so, consider speaking with me to discuss your concerns in a confidential, safe setting. We can work together to lessen or eliminate the impact of whatever problems, worries or concerns you may have. 

My name is Philip Burke, a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing therapy and counseling services in the Hampton Roads area since 2013. I have provided in-home counseling services, working with children, adolescents and adults, providing guidance regarding child and adolescent behavior, addressing parenting concerns, and facilitating family therapy sessions along the way. I have also worked with adults individually addressing personal problems. I specialize in issues of anxiety, depression, life challenges, and grief and loss. I integrate a number of therapy approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, behavioral reinforcement (children & adolescents), parenting concerns, and partner-relationship problems. All the while, I maintain a person-centered stance in addressing these concerns.

Whatever your problems or difficulties, my goal is to make sure you feel heard, valued, and understood. Please feel free to schedule an initial visit with me so that we can work together to help you move forward in achieving your goals and live a happier, more fulfilling life.

Issues Addressed / Populations Served:

• Children / Adolescents / Adults
• Couples / Marriage / Relationship Counseling
• Family Therapy
• Parenting Techniques
• Anxiety / Stress / Panic / Phobias
• Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD / ADD)
• Autism Spectrum Disorder / Asperger’s Counseling
• Depression
• Mood Disorders / Bipolar Disorder
• Trauma and Stress Related Disorders (PTSD/Acute Stress)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Family Systems / Attachment Based Family Therapy
• Relaxation strategies / techniques
• Academic / Occupational / Work Issues/ Career
• Anger Management
• Grief / Loss / Bereavement
• Men’s issues
• Performance Anxiety

Rossa Ridley, Resident in Counseling

Philosophy of Care

Rossa Ridley is a Resident in Counseling and Qualified Mental Health Provider for Adults in the state of Virginia. She has over 7 years of experience assisting adults that are seeking help with a variety of mental health issues, adjusting to life transitions, military related issues, past incarceration, and relationship issues due to childhood trauma. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from ECPI University, a Master of Art in Professional Counseling (Mental Health Counseling) from South University and received an advanced degree of a Master of Philosophy in Forensic Psychology.

She utilizes a collaborative, strength based, cognitive behavioral, person centered, mindfulness based, and holistic focused approaches within the therapeutic relationship. She is a veteran of the military which gave her the unique ability to adapt to the changing needs of those seeking help in the various transition adults may have to maneuver in their daily lives.

Rossa strives to establish a nurturing and empathetic relationship with you to assist you with using your strengths to work through situations and/or stressors so that you can reach your goals. She believes in creating a rapport with you so that you are taking a key role in living the life you that you desire.

Education

South University; Walden University
Master of Arts-Professional Counseling; Master of Philosophy-Forensic Psychology

Specialties

• Mood-related disorders
• Anxiety-related disorders
• Trauma-related disorders including Complex Post Traumatic Disorder
• Military-related disorders (i.e., Military Sexual trauma and/or Combat related)
• Adjustment to major life changes
• Anger management
• Personality Disorders (specifically Borderline, Histrionic, and Anti-social)
• Recovery from Domestic Violence
• LGBTQ- Gender Dysphoria

Sung “Sunny” Cheol Kim, PMHNP-BC

Philosophy of Care

Sunny Kim is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of Virginia who has 3 years of experience working with the adults who are seeking assistance with psychotropic medication management for depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia and substance abuse. Sunny received his Master of Science in Nursing at Virginia Commonwealth University and is experienced in psychiatry and addiction medicine.

Sunny utilizes trauma informed care model to create collaborative environments to provide the needs of every unique individual. Previous experiences in psychiatry and addiction medicine enables Sunny to practice without the stigma against mental health and addiction with evidence based care.

Sunny seeks to establish a stigma free relationship to assist you in building the strength that you need to live the meaningful life that you desire.

Education

Virginia Commonwealth University
Master of Science in Nursing

Specialties

• Psychotropic medication management
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Substance abuse
• Bipolar disorders
• Psychotic disorders
• Panic disorders
• ADHD

Suvi Hyytiainen, A-GNP, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Suvi Hyytiainen was born in Finland. Suvi completed her undergraduate nursing degree in Finland and has worked in Finland, Sweden and the United Kingdom prior to moving to the United States. Suvi has completed the graduate nursing degrees in the United States. Suvi is a board-certified adult geriatric and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Suvi believes in humanistic philosophy of holistic care for both mind and body and has a commitment to individualized and comprehensive care for the patients.

In her free time, Suvi enjoys outdoors, hiking with her friends and rescue Australian Cattle dog, Topi.

Education

Wilkes University
Post Graduate Certificate, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specialties

Walden University
Master of Science in Nursing, Adult-Geriatric Nurse Practitioner

Pirkanmaa Polytechnic
Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Specialties

• Depression, Bipolar and Other Mood Disorders
• Anxiety Disorders, Including PTSD
• Grief and Adjustment Disorders
• Insomnia
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Reminiscence Therapy

Tiffany Brown, LPC

Searching for a counselor can be stressful. Will this person be the right fit? Will they understand me? Will they judge me? It is my passion to help people to understand and navigate the world of counseling and get to the point where they can ultimately understand and navigate their own lives.

I have my Master’s degree in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling from South University in Virginia Beach. I have been in the field for about 9 years. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and serious mental illness among other things.  I specialize in LGBT/Sexuality and Crisis Intervention. I use a Person-Centered, Holistic approach, giving the person the lead to discuss and express themselves however they see fit. “Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go; they merely determine where you start (Nido Qubein).” So, let’s get started!

Uche Umejei, PMHNP

Philosophy of Care

Uche Umejei is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is licensed in the State of Virginia with over 20 years’ experience as a Family Nurse Practitioner.  She has been working in Mental Health and Behavioral Services for over 10 years.  She is experienced in treating adults with both medical and mental illnesses.  Being both Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, she applies integrative health care model in dealing with her patients.

Uche completed her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing at Norfolk State University, Master’s degree at Hampton University as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Doctorate degree at Old Dominion University, all in Virginia.  She completed her Post Master’s degree at the University of New Hampshire as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP).  In her training as a PMHNP, she acquired extensive knowledge with children’s and adults’ mental health care such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar disorder, substance abuse and Insomnia.

Uche focuses on evaluating and diagnosing patients, along with treating them with psychotherapies. She prescribes medications and focuses on a holistic approach to healthcare. She diagnoses mental health issues, including substance abuse, depression, PTSD, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, anxiety disorder for both adults and children. With you working with her, she will be able to manage your mental illness and get you back to living your normal life. She is responsible for assessing your mental health status by studying your medical history, performing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and identify risk factors that might be affecting your mental health. She manages your medications and ensures that your medications are accomplishing their intended job and also manage whatever side effects they may have.

She is compassionate and empathetic.  She educates and informs patients and their families about mental health issues and steps they can take to boost their care.  She takes care of mental illness of patients ranging from pediatrics to geriatrics and all people between.  She determines most effective plan of care by utilizing the knowledge of psychotherapy modalities and psychopharmacology, and in collaboration with other professionals to provide the best treatment for the patient.  She feels rewarded when she sees the changes and growth in her patients that she has facilitated.

Education

Hampton University
Family Nurse Practitioner

Old Dominion University
Doctorate

Specialties

• ADHD for both children and adult
• Anxiety disorder
• Bipolar disorder
• Depression
• Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Substance Abuse
• Insomnia
• Eating disorder

Chinyere Ugwanyi, DNP, PMHNP

Chinyere is a Board Certified licensed, Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a BSN degree from Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, an MSN degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA—all with honors. Chinyere has 13 years of healthcare experience with 12 years of that as a psychiatric nurse and 7 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment and medication management to patients with varying degrees of mental illness, in inpatient/outpatient settings. In addition, Chinyere has worked in a major community mental health system alongside nursing homes and feels comfortable working with a variety of mental and behavioral health conditions, including serious mental illnesses She has expertise in treating mainly adult patients, but can work with adolescent patients as well. She treats patients with disorders that include anxiety, depression, personality disorders, ADHD, PTSD, substance abuse, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Chinyere’s approach to care of her patients is straightforward and clear. She is very professional, caring, respectful and strives to offer personalized mental health services. Chinyere seeks to build a lasting therapeutic relationship with you, while showing empathy with listening ears to your mental health concerns.

Chinyere’s goal is to provide every patient with the highest quality care while empowering them to live a successful, fulfilled life, alongside being in control of their mental health.