Counselor Qualifications and Areas of Practice

I practice as a Licensed Resident in Counseling (LRIC) in the state of Virginia, under the supervision of Anna Atkins, LPC, providing individual counseling. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from University of Puget Sound and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, and couples. I offer a culturally affirming approach for clients dealing with a wide range of issues, including: trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, military lifestyle, relationship issues, women’s issues, self-esteem and self-worth struggles, people-pleasing behaviors, cultural concerns, family of origin issues, burnout, compassion fatigue, and improving communication skills. I will make appropriate referrals should we find that my clinical experience will not effectively meet your clinical needs. If you have any questions or concerns throughout our time together, I encourage you to first reach out to me and see if we can come to a resolution. If you have any remaining questions or concerns after we have communicated, you may reach my supervisor at anna@lighthouse-counselingllc.com.

Theoretical Orientation

My approach to counseling is grounded in the belief that our cultural upbringing deeply shapes our values, beliefs, and worldview. I practice with a trauma-informed and culturally responsive lens in an empathetic, non-judgemental manner, recognizing that each client’s unique background influences their identity, relationships, thought processes, and coping strategies.

As a multicultural-sensitive clinician, I am especially attuned to the unique needs of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) clients. I adapt therapy to honor each individual’s cultural context, values, and lived experiences, creating a space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to explore their story with authenticity and self-compassion.

I draw primarily from a Person-Centered framework, while integrating interventions from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Relational Cultural Therapy (RCT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), the Gottman Method, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). ACT is often my foundational approach, offering tools for mindfulness, values-based action, and psychological flexibility—the capacity to stay present and make meaningful choices, even in the face of difficult emotions.

Through collaborative therapy, we’ll align your goals and values to build a more balanced and fulfilling life. I incorporate creative interventions, skill-building, and talk therapy to support your overall well-being, including spiritual health when desired. Healing is viewed holistically—centered on both emotional and cultural needs—and guided by your pace, preferences, and autonomy.

Together, we’ll explore ways to cultivate nourishment, celebration, and healing, while giving voice to emotions often silenced by trauma, stress, or oppression. If you wish, your personal faith or spirituality can be integrated into our work. As we embark on your healing and growth journey together, you may find that the therapeutic process can feel both liberating and healing—or at times, painful and challenging. I honor these complexities and aim to create a supportive space where you can engage with your experiences authentically, at your own pace. I strive to provide a safe, supportive space for you to grow in your own way.

Code of Ethics

As stated before, I am a Licensed Resident in Counseling in the state of Virginia. I follow the ethical and professional standards of the American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics. As a practice, we also adhere to the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) Code of Ethics.  These codes of ethics outline my responsibilities to uphold a professional and appropriate relationship with clients. Outlined in this code are the values of the counseling profession and the purpose of the therapeutic relationship between counselors and clients. Following the ACA and AACC code of ethics will allow me to function at my highest potential and to do what is in your best interest as my client. At the same time, the direction given in my therapy sessions is clearly influenced by both my Christian faith and counseling theory. If you have concerns or questions about the counseling process, please share this with me. It is important we are on the same page and your goals in counseling are prioritized.

 I have the utmost respect and confidentiality for the information that is shared with me and your privacy will be upheld by state law and my profession’s ethical codes. However, I am legally obligated to break confidentiality in the following situations. If I believe that you intend to harm yourself or another, or if I believe that a child, incapacitated adult, or elderly person has been or will be abused, neglected, or exploited.

If your core beliefs differ from mine, please discuss this with me. Please feel free to share any concerns and ask questions about any aspect of the counseling process including treatment approach, progress, and the termination (the end) of the counseling process.