Therapists in Ashland, VA

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience in helping people find solutions to their problems. Over the years, I have been told by clients that they really feel that I am listening to them and trying to understand what is going on in their lives and how they feel. Clients have also told me that they do not feel any sense of judgment, but rather that I accept them for who they are and where they are in their life’s journey. My style is empathetic and solution focused. I will spend time asking you questions in order to get to know you and try to find out what is at the heart of your issue. Together, we will talk about possible avenues you may want to take, or changes you may want to consider. I may give you some “homework” assignments…things to write out or think about, worksheets to complete, or even techniques/exercises to practice in your own time so that some of what we discuss in our sessions is reinforced. Most of all, I will be an objective listener, helping you to gain insight into what is going on with you, so that you are able to make the choices and changes you want to, in your own time. I look forward to working with you!

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with 5 years counseling experience working as a counselor, skills coach, and crisis counselor. I have worked with client and families with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD, and psychosis. My counseling style is warm and understanding. I believe everyone deserves to feel respected and heard without preconceived stigmas or prejudices. My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and ACT to help equip you with the tools you will need to live a more fulfilling and joy-filled life. I will draw from each of these techniques to find a treatment plan that best fits you and your unique needs. Reaching out to ask for help can be a daunting first step, but also the most important for reaching your goals and having a more happy, fulfilling life. If you are ready to take that first step, I am here to support and empower you through this process. I look forward to working with you in the near future.

Life is ever changing; the challenge is to be able to manage and keep moving forward while maintaining a positive and healthy mindset. Most of the time the answers to our questions, fears and even desires are just a matter of reaching forward to take action and working through it. Let's work together, I'm here to help. We are communal beings and benefit from the assistance of someone coming along side us to help. That is what I believe therapy is a collaborative effort to reach your desired goals. I am a graduate of Regent University (2011) with a Master's degree in counseling, a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia, and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida. As an outpatient therapist, I enjoy working with individuals, families, and children. I have extensive experience working with groups, individual counseling, premarital, marital, couples, family relationships, adults, adolescents and children. I have worked with children in schools as a therapeutic day counselor, intensive in-home counselor working with at- risk children and their families. I have also facilitated support groups for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety and bipolar.

I have 30 years experience as a counselor. I have worked in many different environments including, private practice, local mental health clinics, inpatient mental health and substance abuse clinics. I work with people to help them be the person they are and become the person they want to be. I am a real bearded Santa but am not religious. I related to the natural world in a way that I describe as spiritual, although it may not be what most people consider to be spiritual I served in the US Army both active duty and National Guard. I am a Vietnam Veteran with a total of 23 years service. I was a MFLC and worked with active duty soldiers and airmen for several years mostly at Fort Bragg but other facilities as well. I am married, have four children and eight grandchildren.

Embracing the journey toward healing and personal growth is a powerful step toward realizing your full potential. Oneida Strength-Based, Compassionate Counseling for Meaningful Change About My Practice: My therapy centers on a strength-based perspective, focusing on your unique abilities and inner resources rather than your problems. I believe in highlighting your resilience and courage, empowering you to create meaningful and lasting change. Through compassionate and collaborative work, I strive to help you harness your strengths to overcome challenges and transform your life. Professional Experience and Credentials: I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over two decades of experience helping individuals manage depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, stress, and senior care. I provide guidance and support through life's complexities, with an understanding of the challenges at every stage. My approach is person-centered and humanistic, integrating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Brief Purposeful Therapy. These methods are designed to help you navigate challenges, embrace change, and develop into your best self. Together, we will create a safe and supportive environment that fosters healing and growth. Cultural Competence and Linguistic Fluency: Fluent in both English and Spanish, I bring cultural understanding and compassion to my work, supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds. My commitment to inclusivity ensures that everyone receives care tailored to their unique experiences and needs. Education and Licensure: • Master's in social work from New York University • Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia and New York My Philosophy: Throughout my career, I've dedicated myself to helping people embrace their strengths, discover their purpose, and take control of their lives. Change may not always feel immediate, but it is possible—and you have the power to make it happen. I am here to walk alongside you with empathy, respect, and genuine care as you move toward a happier, more fulfilling life. Let's Collaborate: If you're ready to embark on your journey toward personal growth and well-being, I am here to provide the support, understanding, and expertise you need. Together, we can tackle life's challenges and unlock your potential for a more joyful and meaningful future. Although seeking therapy can stir feelings of fear and vulnerability, don't let that hold you back from becoming your best self. Embracing the journey toward healing and personal growth is a powerful step toward realizing your full potential.

I have over 20 years of experience as a clinical social worker providing individual therapy for adults across the age spectrum. I have experienced with a diverse population with focus on life transitions issues of grief, aging and anxiety. I use an approach that includes working with a person's strengths and encouraging their capacity to change. I see clients and develope treatment goals and improve the quality of life in order to develop a more positive self-image and a more effective way of coping and decreasing stress.

As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and personal growth. I bring a deep understanding of multicultural experiences and offer compassionate support for diverse populations, including veterans, first responders, and aging adults. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empowerment and holistic healing. I focus on building communication skills, addressing family dynamics, workplace challenges, and supporting individuals through significant life transitions. With expertise in trauma-informed care, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate self-love. I am committed to walking alongside my clients, honoring their unique stories and strengths. Whether you're dealing with posttraumatic stress, caregiver burnout, or seeking to improve personal relationships, I offer a warm, culturally responsive approach to healing and personal transformation.

As a licensed therapist in Virginia with over two decades of professional experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping adults struggling with social anxiety, phobias, and substance use challenges. I bring a compassionate, evidence-based approach to addressing stress, anxiety, and substance misuse, creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. My commitment is to walk alongside you, offering guidance and understanding as you work towards healing and empowerment.

I am licensed in Virginia with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I am licensed in Tennessee and Virginia with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia with 25 years of professional work experience in both direct patient care and program management. I have worked in a number of Behavioral Health settings including Inpatient Units, Intensive Outpatient Clinics and hospital Emergency Departments. I have worked with clients experiencing significant depression, anxiety, thoughts of self harm, career difficulties, life changes, relationship issues and communication issues. During therapy my focus is on assisting clients in identifying their main concerns, exploring the causes of their distress and working together to find solutions. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I appreciate you for getting started!

Hello, I have organized INFORMATIONAL RESOURCES on various online platforms based on a topic of interest, a common need, or related to various lessons, challenges, and experiences during a lifetime. I also manage a YouTube channel for access by clients - "journey associates" with a red sunset background. The content is not my own, but a collection from various sources related to the mind for you to find. Go to the Playlist tab, the tap "View ALL" to look around at the many folders and thousands of links. These resources can be found at - https://www.youtube.com/@findingyourwaytoday I also manage several groups or pages on Facebook related to navigating through the challenges of life, enjoyment, leisure, learning, and cool stuff. One such group to provide information related to coping, caring, and community is "Outside of the Box: Coping Creatively with Whatever" found at https://www.facebook.com/groups/2589259251341840 . Several sub-groups on topics can be found via a request for a menu of titles. Subgroups and pages on Facebook include the following topics: > support for men, > support for women, > support for teens, (as of 07/02/25 I am not accepting teen clients) > guidance for people in their 20s, > adults who contend with ADHD + > the process of bereavement, > recovery from loss and trauma, > relationship dynamics, > parenting and family issues, > individual development by age-groups through the decades, > pretirement (preparation) and retirement (action and execution), > neurological aspects of causation and behavior, > creativity and perception, > community, coping, and self-care, > the loss of precious pets, > the need for maintaining a sense of humor, > photography and sharing videos as a hobby, > self-development and insight via writing and art, > appreciation of nature, and > inclusive spirituality and ethics. If you'd like to learn more, you can send a specific request regarding your interests, curiosities, and related topics to: findingyourwaytoday@gmail.com. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: I am skilled at guiding individuals and couples through a review of • thoughts and behaviors, • history and anticipation, • beliefs and misconceptions, • values and choices, and • goals and objectives toward an increased awareness of options, needs, resources, and results. The application of such knowledge about oneself can lead to choices that are more likely to be experienced as effective, productive, healthier, and rewarding. To provide space for a more structured option, I have limited other descriptive information on my profile. That information is readily shared once a client makes a decision to explore my qualifications, style, specializations, and approach before and during the first session, which, in part, is an interview by the client of myself as a professional of potential selection. PLEASE NOTE In addition to the next section of SPECIAL OFFERING - See the last portions of my profile > DIVERSITY OF EXPERIENCE, > PERSONAL POWER, and > THE PROCESS. A SPECIAL OFFERING of Structure and Focus for an eight-session intensive experience yielding optimized value for your investment of financial resources, of time, of effort, of energy, and of attention. One program is called "I AM READY" for clients who want an infusion of information, activities, skills, and tools related to their given focus and needs. One can choose to stop at the end of four sessions (Part 1), or sooner if the match of myself as a professional with a client does not feel like a good-enough fit. The goal of the eight-session infusion is to prepare you to move forward with or without a counselor after an introduction of structured information, practiced skills, and wisdom-tips as a foundation for healthier self-care and more effective coping. One aspect of this process is to learn how concepts and behaviors are tools to enhance a sense of self and to apply principles for change, maintenance, recovery, and gratification. Another aspect of the process is to identify and name the critical issues that warrant attention as a pathway to: • increase and apply awareness, • reduce personal barriers or situational roadblocks, • enhance coping and action strategies, • broaden perspectives, • deepen understanding, • emphasize strengths and assets, • develop personal confidence and efficacy, • highlight existing assets and resources, toward the outcomes of • increased gratification, gratitude, desired results, • an orientation of where you are at this time in your life, or regarding certain issues, • a process of defining your goals and objectives, and • a measurable clarity of options related to self-care, coping, direction, and resources. You are not obligated to continue after the fourth session, or even the first session, if there does not seem to be a good fit of my professional style and methods with your expectations, needs and goals. Each client’s feedback is requested during or after each session to assure that I am on course with your goals and needs. I suggest rituals that reinforce life-long learning and personal growth. Requirements: individuals and couples who can relate to the meaning and desire to improve or integrate the concepts listed below. The “I AM READY” timeframe of 8 weekly sessions (Parts 1 and 2) is designed for people who are ready to engage in the process and participate in what is needed for effective outcomes. Here are some concepts that represent the acronym of I AM READY. I – Initiative, Intelligence, Insight, Intrinsic, Interpretation, Integrity, Innovative, Investment, Intention A – Ability, Acquisition, Attitude, Accurate, Action, Affirmation, Application M – Mindfulness, Meditation, Maturation, Meaning, Motivation, Mindset, Mentality, Method, Map R – Real-istic, Renew, Redefine, Relevant, Review, Replace, Rethink, Reason, Resourceful, Retain E – Education, Emotion, Energy, Enough, Expression, Experience, Explanation, Expectation, Evaluation A – Assessment, Access, Accentuate, Assess, Articulate, Attribute D – Determined, Dedicated, Decisive, Development, Daily, Dignity, Deliberation, Diverse, Depth, Durable Y – Why? YOUnique, Yield, YES!, YOU can DO this!, Your Goals. If you are ready to engage and commit and follow-through vs window shop or partially use your subscription with missed or non-scheduled appointments, then count to 10 as you assess your degree of readiness and motivation. Then decide if you are ready or not for the Part 1 - four sessions of assessment, support, and education, as a foundation upon which the process will lead you through the subsequent four weeks and into the next chapter of your life. DIVERSITY OF EXPERIENCE and PERSPECTIVES • I have worked with people who struggled with an active addition or who were in recovery from one of the worst chapters of their lives. • I have listened to and supported clients who worked in blue-collar jobs and clients who worked in white-collar positions. • I have provided counsel and education to people who currently or had been employed on Capitol Hill, at the Pentagon, and in The White House. • Clients have also included those who have worked at various federal agencies: FBI, NASA, US Border Patrol, and the Secret Service, law enforcement, clergy, active military personnel and veterans. • I’ve served clients who were first-responders or first-time parents. • I have guided teens who were in high school or transitioning to the experience of college-related demands. • I have been a bereavement counselor to survivors who faced the death (of various causes, anticipated and unexpected, which can result in “complicated bereavement”) - of a partner or spouse, - a parent, a sibling, a grandparent, - a child or a grandchild – both under legal age and as an adult-child. • I have supported people who have contended with invisible, chronic illness or pain, or who have had deteriorating health, and across different points in the lifespan. • I have been a privileged witness to the sacred, private lives of many people who survived adverse childhood experiences, • trauma as an adult, (military, domestic, and circumstantial: victimization, accidents, work-related or other accidents, hospital experiences, the death of a loved-one, witness a situation involving someone else safety, etc.), • and persons who have contended with gradual or sudden heartbreak and grief, • debilitating and diminishing consequential aspects of an anxiety disorder, • the suffering inherent with mood disorders (episodic or chronic in nature), • and the universal issues of being human combined with the developmental tasks required of continued growth and adjustment. • During college I worked at two summer-camps for four years (in MA and NJ) with people who had developmental disabilities, the under-privileged, and the very privileged. • And I have presented workshops at professional conferences and for agency trainings. PERSONAL POWER includes: 1. an awareness of making a series of choices, 2. resulting in executing a decision, and a direction, and 3. the application of knowing what is required for a desired outcome, with 4. the creative process of exploring or creating options. The PROCESS 1. MAKING A DECISION, 2. CHOOSING A HEALTHCARE PROVIDER, 3. TAKING ACTION ON YOUR DECISION and CHOICE 4. ENGAGING IN THE PROCESS of • UNCERTAINTY, • STRUCTURE, • EDUCATION, • SUPPORT, and • ACTIVITIES for • Desired RESULTS. If you want to interview me during a first session, I can then send you more information about how I see my style and approach (humanistic, educational, and eclectic with life-long learning). And if you decide to continue your search for a better fit with a therapist of your choosing, I genuinely endorse and support that path, by removing your connect to me if that be the case. If that would be your decision, I do ask that each client apply direct communication about intentions or needs so as to • “not fill a seat in my electronic waiting room” by clients who are undecided, • as evidenced by not making appointments, or not keeping appointments, • due to not being ready to start and follow-through, and thus, limiting access to my services of clients who are ready with a plan to begin the process. Please be aware that for each when a client who is passive, dormant, or • inconsistent in scheduling and keeping appointments, • there is a counter-productive influence on my availability to potential clients due to a place being taken on my roster of existing clients. You can choose to disconnect your affiliation with me in order to take action with another therapist and/or return when you are ready and able to engage consistently in the process and service for which you are paying a monthly subscription. Sincerely, Will Perks, MSW LICSW in West Virginia LCSW in Virginia LISW-CP in South Carolina

I am licensed in Virginia with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am licensed in Virginia with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.