Welcome to Lighthouse Counseling. Therapy is based upon boundaries and trust. Please carefully review the following information since it is the foundation on which the counseling relationship is built.

Welcome, and thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve and walk alongside you through life’s journey. This statement will inform you of my background, counseling style, and your rights.

Education and Areas of Practice:

I attained my Bachelor of Science in Sociology (2016) and my Master of Science in Education, emphasis: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (2024), both from Old Dominion University. As a Licensed Resident in Counseling (LRIC #0704017149) approved by the Department of Health Professions in the Commonwealth of Virginia, I am under the supervision of Meichell Worthing MA, LPC. My clinical experience includes anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, trauma, PTSD, OCD, ASD, and ADHD. The populations I serve are women, couples, and families. Additionally, I see children and adolescents, ages 12 and older, on a case-by-case basis. If you become dissatisfied with my counsel for any reason, please contact my supervisor at meichell@lighthouse-counselingllc.com.

Theoretical Orientation:

         My counseling style is Exploratory, Individualized, and Future-Focused. I draw from the theoretical perspectives of psychoanalysis, discerning origins of maladaptive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, while remaining person-centered and solution-focused. Interventions I readily employ include those from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Choice/Reality Therapy, and Positive Psychology. The foundation of my practice emanates from Christianity and the principles of Love described by Paul in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. Christian integrative therapy is available to all but not a requirement of treatment. Respect for my clients interests and cultural needs are my priority. 

Confidentiality:

         All communications, including diagnoses become part of the clinical record. This information remains confidential with the following exceptions: a) with direction from the client, b) I deem the client is a danger to themselves or others, c) I am made aware of physical or sexual abuse of minors, disabled persons, or senior citizens, d) under court order, e) if required by insurance, f) while working collaboratively with other professionals when necessary. If you are a minor, confidentiality is limited to the extent exercised by your parent/legal guardian.

Sessions and Cancellations:

         Sessions are scheduled for 45 minutes. If you are unable to attend an appointment, you must cancel or reschedule 24 hours in advance to avoid a missed appointment fee. There is one no-show given in grace for an unexpected event. If two consecutive appointments are missed without proper notice, that appointment slot will be given to another client. If you or your child become sick, please cancel the session in advance. I reserve the right to refuse service to an individual visibly displaying symptoms of illness.

Complaints, Referrals, and Informed Consent:

            I abide by the American Counseling Association (ACA) code of ethics. These guidelines are set forth for the protection of the client as well as the counselor. If for any reason you feel that ethics have been breached or I am not meeting your therapeutic needs, I encourage you to speak with me first so that I may have the opportunity to adjust my approach. If your concerns are not resolved, please feel free to contact my supervisor at meichell@lighthouse-counselingllc.com. In some cases, client and counselor may not be a good fit. I am happy to provide referrals to other clinicians when requested.