Existential Therapists in Charlottesville City County, VA

Photo of Clairissa Richardson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlottesville City County, VA
Clairissa Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Employing humanistic and existential approaches, she prioritizes client-centeredness.
Dr. Clairissa Richardson is a seasoned practitioner informed by research, boasting an impressive 8-year tenure in diagnosing and treating psychological disorders. As a devout Christian and dedicated social worker, Dr. Richardson champions the integration of spirituality-based therapies in her practice. She earned her doctorate degree in social work from Simmons University in Boston, Massachusetts, complemented by Bachelor's and Master's degrees from The Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida.
Employing humanistic and existential approaches, she prioritizes client-centeredness.
Dr. Clairissa Richardson is a seasoned practitioner informed by research, boasting an impressive 8-year tenure in diagnosing and treating psychological disorders. As a devout Christian and dedicated social worker, Dr. Richardson champions the integration of spirituality-based therapies in her practice. She earned her doctorate degree in social work from Simmons University in Boston, Massachusetts, complemented by Bachelor's and Master's degrees from The Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida.
(434) 595-3184 View (434) 595-3184
Photo of Cynthia Rogers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlottesville City County, VA
Cynthia Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DMin, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22904  (Online Only)
My clinical approach draws from positive psychology, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, neuroscience, EMDR, self-hypnosis, family systems, parts therapy, and exploring existential or spiritual issues.
Are you searching for peace and wellness? Do you feel anxious or depressed? Have you experienced stress or trauma from relationships with others or other life events? Have you been worrying about life transitions or other issues? Has physical illnesses caused pain? Do you have concerns or questions associated with aging or dying? Perhaps you have wondered about deeper meanings in life or your spirituality? I will compassionately listen to your unique situation and collaboratively work with you to assess your strengths and needs in developing a therapeutic approach to your life challenges. There is hope that you can feel better.
My clinical approach draws from positive psychology, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, neuroscience, EMDR, self-hypnosis, family systems, parts therapy, and exploring existential or spiritual issues.
Are you searching for peace and wellness? Do you feel anxious or depressed? Have you experienced stress or trauma from relationships with others or other life events? Have you been worrying about life transitions or other issues? Has physical illnesses caused pain? Do you have concerns or questions associated with aging or dying? Perhaps you have wondered about deeper meanings in life or your spirituality? I will compassionately listen to your unique situation and collaboratively work with you to assess your strengths and needs in developing a therapeutic approach to your life challenges. There is hope that you can feel better.
(571) 200-2471 View (571) 200-2471
Photo of Anna Schulman in Charlottesville City County, VA
Anna Schulman
MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Do you long to spend more time outdoors? Do you feel more in touch with yourself or have a renewed sense of vitality after time in the natural world? Have you struggled to access your emotions or share them in traditional talk therapy? Could you imagine inviting in the gentle breeze or sturdy sycamore tree into your therapy session? On our first ecotherapy session, I’ll invite you to to consider our time outdoors as time building a relationship with nature, similar as you might with a new friend. Instead of the four walls of a waiting room, we will meet at the trailhead and begin exploring the goals and aspirations you have.
Do you long to spend more time outdoors? Do you feel more in touch with yourself or have a renewed sense of vitality after time in the natural world? Have you struggled to access your emotions or share them in traditional talk therapy? Could you imagine inviting in the gentle breeze or sturdy sycamore tree into your therapy session? On our first ecotherapy session, I’ll invite you to to consider our time outdoors as time building a relationship with nature, similar as you might with a new friend. Instead of the four walls of a waiting room, we will meet at the trailhead and begin exploring the goals and aspirations you have.
(434) 201-8480 View (434) 201-8480
Photo of April Bennett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlottesville City County, VA
April Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Accompaniment matters. Relationships transform. We sit together to access the health that is at the center of every human being, even when one of us can’t feel it. We sit because healing happens in relationship, access to true self is made easier in the presence of another person’s settled nervous system, and because your healing matters for the health of all of us. Whether you are facing overwhelm, anger, a frozen feeling, compulsions, depression, trauma, anxiety, or facing other difficult experience, we can touch it with awareness and respect. Our experience includes joy, includes pain, and includes connection and compassion.
Accompaniment matters. Relationships transform. We sit together to access the health that is at the center of every human being, even when one of us can’t feel it. We sit because healing happens in relationship, access to true self is made easier in the presence of another person’s settled nervous system, and because your healing matters for the health of all of us. Whether you are facing overwhelm, anger, a frozen feeling, compulsions, depression, trauma, anxiety, or facing other difficult experience, we can touch it with awareness and respect. Our experience includes joy, includes pain, and includes connection and compassion.
(434) 337-3568 View (434) 337-3568
Photo of Leiah Aleksich, Pre-Licensed Professional in Charlottesville City County, VA
Leiah Aleksich
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
Hi there, I'm Leiah Aleksich, a social work supervisee bringing 2 years of experience in individual therapy to the table. My main focus is supporting adolescents and young adults grappling with life transitions, depression, motivation, and various other challenges. I strive to cultivate a welcoming space for my clients, enabling us to delve into emotions, thoughts, and triggers together. I firmly believe in the uniqueness of every individual, which is why I tailor our approach to suit you and your specific needs, aiming to develop coping strategies that resonate with your personality.
Hi there, I'm Leiah Aleksich, a social work supervisee bringing 2 years of experience in individual therapy to the table. My main focus is supporting adolescents and young adults grappling with life transitions, depression, motivation, and various other challenges. I strive to cultivate a welcoming space for my clients, enabling us to delve into emotions, thoughts, and triggers together. I firmly believe in the uniqueness of every individual, which is why I tailor our approach to suit you and your specific needs, aiming to develop coping strategies that resonate with your personality.
(434) 478-4985 View (434) 478-4985
Photo of Kathleen Gordon-Granado, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlottesville City County, VA
Kathleen Gordon-Granado
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. My focus lies predominantly with adult individuals seeking assistance in managing life stressors, navigating challenging transitions, addressing symptoms of depression or anxiety, or processing past traumatic experiences. Some individuals enter therapy with clear objectives for their lives post-treatment, while others may require assistance in identifying these initial goals. My role is to aid individuals in achieving their own life goals, fostering empowerment and growth.
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. My focus lies predominantly with adult individuals seeking assistance in managing life stressors, navigating challenging transitions, addressing symptoms of depression or anxiety, or processing past traumatic experiences. Some individuals enter therapy with clear objectives for their lives post-treatment, while others may require assistance in identifying these initial goals. My role is to aid individuals in achieving their own life goals, fostering empowerment and growth.
(434) 722-3569 x1 View (434) 722-3569 x1
Photo of Dana Herr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlottesville City County, VA
Dana Herr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Therapy has as its fulcrum a secure, connected, trustworthy relationship. Within this safe zone there is opportunity for discovery, healing, questioning, empowerment, questioning, and goal-setting. I see therapy as an open-ended, yet purposeful opportunity for all of these, and more. I strive to help clients explore and expand their sense of themselves, and to live and relate authentically, both in relationships and in vocation. I have a gentle, affirmative clinical presence, at points serene and curious, at others interactive, with humor as an adjunct.
Therapy has as its fulcrum a secure, connected, trustworthy relationship. Within this safe zone there is opportunity for discovery, healing, questioning, empowerment, questioning, and goal-setting. I see therapy as an open-ended, yet purposeful opportunity for all of these, and more. I strive to help clients explore and expand their sense of themselves, and to live and relate authentically, both in relationships and in vocation. I have a gentle, affirmative clinical presence, at points serene and curious, at others interactive, with humor as an adjunct.
(434) 264-5313 View (434) 264-5313
Photo of Paige Goodloe, Pre-Licensed Professional in Charlottesville City County, VA
Paige Goodloe
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22903  (Online Only)
Telehealth only - now accepting Aetna! Struggling is a normal part of life, but it's definitely harder when we do it alone. Counseling with me will focus on looking at the bigger picture - meaning, purpose, and authenticity - while helping you build more sustainable habits. With every client, I work to create a unique relationship where you can feel safe to laugh, cry, or have any emotion on the wide, beautiful spectrum of human experience. By working with the whole You instead of just symptoms, you can find a greater sense of purpose and peace.
Telehealth only - now accepting Aetna! Struggling is a normal part of life, but it's definitely harder when we do it alone. Counseling with me will focus on looking at the bigger picture - meaning, purpose, and authenticity - while helping you build more sustainable habits. With every client, I work to create a unique relationship where you can feel safe to laugh, cry, or have any emotion on the wide, beautiful spectrum of human experience. By working with the whole You instead of just symptoms, you can find a greater sense of purpose and peace.
(434) 201-7439 View (434) 201-7439
Photo of Kayla Jackson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Charlottesville City County, VA
Kayla Jackson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
I'm Kayla Jackson, a dedicated Clinical Social Worker based in Virginia, driven by a deep passion for empowering individuals to help themselves. My goal is to be a steadfast support as you embark on your journey toward positive change, offering honest feedback, effective strategies, and a nurturing environment for your personal growth. Throughout my career, I've gained extensive experience in diverse settings such as intensive outpatient programs, residential facilities, child welfare services, and intensive in-home support.
I'm Kayla Jackson, a dedicated Clinical Social Worker based in Virginia, driven by a deep passion for empowering individuals to help themselves. My goal is to be a steadfast support as you embark on your journey toward positive change, offering honest feedback, effective strategies, and a nurturing environment for your personal growth. Throughout my career, I've gained extensive experience in diverse settings such as intensive outpatient programs, residential facilities, child welfare services, and intensive in-home support.
(434) 423-6776 View (434) 423-6776
Photo of Daphne Ingene, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlottesville City County, VA
Daphne Ingene
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
I enjoy helping people establish and maintain relationships. It could be a relationship with your significant other, colleagues, or your family where values, beliefs, expectations, or even the cultures may be different. I also help people maintain a positive relationship with themselves by achieving an internal balance and being at peace with their past experiences.
I enjoy helping people establish and maintain relationships. It could be a relationship with your significant other, colleagues, or your family where values, beliefs, expectations, or even the cultures may be different. I also help people maintain a positive relationship with themselves by achieving an internal balance and being at peace with their past experiences.
(434) 326-0527 View (434) 326-0527
Photo of Dr. Michael M Grant, Psychologist in Charlottesville City County, VA
Dr. Michael M Grant
Psychologist, PhD, MBA
Verified Verified
I offer therapy & evaluation (testing) services for those 18+. Clients don't come to me because they are happy. They come, most likely, because they are in pain and hurt. They are tired of feeling stuck, and the fear, tears, and whatever seems to be causing them all. They aren’t interested in therapy because they want therapy. In fact, they are not even sure IF they want therapy—but they ARE sure they want to get unstuck and feel better. So, for you: here you are. . . not all that sure that this is going to help but damn sure you want to do something that might make a positive change and get your life moving forward again.
I offer therapy & evaluation (testing) services for those 18+. Clients don't come to me because they are happy. They come, most likely, because they are in pain and hurt. They are tired of feeling stuck, and the fear, tears, and whatever seems to be causing them all. They aren’t interested in therapy because they want therapy. In fact, they are not even sure IF they want therapy—but they ARE sure they want to get unstuck and feel better. So, for you: here you are. . . not all that sure that this is going to help but damn sure you want to do something that might make a positive change and get your life moving forward again.
(434) 290-4269 View (434) 290-4269
Photo of Megan Kiernan, Resident in Counseling in Charlottesville City County, VA
Megan Kiernan
Resident in Counseling, MEd
Verified Verified
I specialize in helping adults and older teens (16+) who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem and trauma. I provide a nurturing, tender and understanding space in which our connection creates the safety for growth to occur. I am not afraid of your darkest thoughts or deepest sorrows. I delight in unlocking the deep possibilities for growth that exist inside the darkness. In our work, we will discover and cultivate your wise, confident, and compassionate internal voice. A voice that each of us possess within ourselves.
I specialize in helping adults and older teens (16+) who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem and trauma. I provide a nurturing, tender and understanding space in which our connection creates the safety for growth to occur. I am not afraid of your darkest thoughts or deepest sorrows. I delight in unlocking the deep possibilities for growth that exist inside the darkness. In our work, we will discover and cultivate your wise, confident, and compassionate internal voice. A voice that each of us possess within ourselves.
(434) 202-4277 View (434) 202-4277
Photo of Ella Beck, Pre-Licensed Professional in Charlottesville City County, VA
Ella Beck
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. I’m a compassionate and dedicated counselor who believes that each individual possesses the incredible power for change within themselves. My mission is to guide you on a transformative journey of self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. In the warm and accepting space I create, you are invited to explore your thoughts and feelings freely. I understand that seeking counseling can be an intimidating step, and I want you to feel comfortable and supported throughout the process. Here, you can share your experiences, challenges, and aspirations without fear of judgment.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. I’m a compassionate and dedicated counselor who believes that each individual possesses the incredible power for change within themselves. My mission is to guide you on a transformative journey of self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. In the warm and accepting space I create, you are invited to explore your thoughts and feelings freely. I understand that seeking counseling can be an intimidating step, and I want you to feel comfortable and supported throughout the process. Here, you can share your experiences, challenges, and aspirations without fear of judgment.
(434) 830-8094 View (434) 830-8094
Photo of Momilani Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlottesville City County, VA
Momilani Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hello, I'm Momilani Williams, a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience in the Mental Health field. My background includes advocacy in school settings, support for foster youth, and assisting military children and families. I specialize in aiding individuals overwhelmed by life's challenges or their emotions, guiding them towards positive processing. Together, we'll devise strategies to manage emotions and reconnect with your authentic self. Whether you're navigating complex relationship dynamics or grappling with anxiety and depression, I'm here to support you.
Hello, I'm Momilani Williams, a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience in the Mental Health field. My background includes advocacy in school settings, support for foster youth, and assisting military children and families. I specialize in aiding individuals overwhelmed by life's challenges or their emotions, guiding them towards positive processing. Together, we'll devise strategies to manage emotions and reconnect with your authentic self. Whether you're navigating complex relationship dynamics or grappling with anxiety and depression, I'm here to support you.
(434) 201-8269 x1 View (434) 201-8269 x1
Photo of Onnie Baldwin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlottesville City County, VA
Onnie Baldwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, EFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
It's hard for anyone to talk about personal issues. Anyone brave enough to do this launches themselves into a life giving process that increases the possibilities of their lives forever. It brings about unbelievable changes opening possibilities never thought of. It's hard work. It's scary. But it teaches one to live effectively with what life has brought and create changes that enhance the life that is. It's a journey into the good and the bad that takes a person to new heights. It's an exploration that creates love and light in a life.
It's hard for anyone to talk about personal issues. Anyone brave enough to do this launches themselves into a life giving process that increases the possibilities of their lives forever. It brings about unbelievable changes opening possibilities never thought of. It's hard work. It's scary. But it teaches one to live effectively with what life has brought and create changes that enhance the life that is. It's a journey into the good and the bad that takes a person to new heights. It's an exploration that creates love and light in a life.
(434) 280-3513 View (434) 280-3513
Photo of Briana Holmes, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in Charlottesville City County, VA
Briana Holmes
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hello, I'm Briana Holmes, presently a Supervisee in Social Work, on the path to becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. With a background in delivering therapeutic interventions across diverse settings, encompassing both inpatient and outpatient environments, I bring a wealth of experience. My dedication lies in supporting young children and adolescents through what can often be a challenging phase marked by profound physical and psychological transformations. My aim is to offer steadfast emotional support and guidance to help navigate any hurdles my clients encounter along the way.
Hello, I'm Briana Holmes, presently a Supervisee in Social Work, on the path to becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. With a background in delivering therapeutic interventions across diverse settings, encompassing both inpatient and outpatient environments, I bring a wealth of experience. My dedication lies in supporting young children and adolescents through what can often be a challenging phase marked by profound physical and psychological transformations. My aim is to offer steadfast emotional support and guidance to help navigate any hurdles my clients encounter along the way.
(434) 595-3217 View (434) 595-3217
Photo of Megan Stocker Headley, Counselor in Charlottesville City County, VA
Megan Stocker Headley
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Do you feel chronically disconnected or stuck in unhelpful patterns despite "knowing better"? This misalignment might be affecting your physical health, your relationships, your sense of self, and your visions for the future. While many of the strategies you relied upon in early life were both necessary and adaptive, they can also become what hold you back later in life. What if we explore some of your origin stories and update those defaults to better reflect who you are, instead of who you believed you had to be? What if we deepen your self-belonging, thereby strengthening your capacity to connect more effortlessly with others?
Do you feel chronically disconnected or stuck in unhelpful patterns despite "knowing better"? This misalignment might be affecting your physical health, your relationships, your sense of self, and your visions for the future. While many of the strategies you relied upon in early life were both necessary and adaptive, they can also become what hold you back later in life. What if we explore some of your origin stories and update those defaults to better reflect who you are, instead of who you believed you had to be? What if we deepen your self-belonging, thereby strengthening your capacity to connect more effortlessly with others?
(434) 732-2230 View (434) 732-2230
Photo of Fabian Kuttner, Resident in Counseling in Charlottesville City County, VA
Fabian Kuttner
Resident in Counseling, MA, RIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Working with couples and men is awesome. My clients always surprise me with their intelligence and strength, even if muted by their immediate troubles. Focusing on the connection the couple does have, we can work on the skills to being our own individual within the relationship. Working with men often involves negotiating the contradictions the world presents, attending to power differentials and how they impact our inner world, discovering where our habits developed and how we want to change and grow who we are in the world. I utilize a multitude of maps to offer my clients impactful and effective interventions.
Working with couples and men is awesome. My clients always surprise me with their intelligence and strength, even if muted by their immediate troubles. Focusing on the connection the couple does have, we can work on the skills to being our own individual within the relationship. Working with men often involves negotiating the contradictions the world presents, attending to power differentials and how they impact our inner world, discovering where our habits developed and how we want to change and grow who we are in the world. I utilize a multitude of maps to offer my clients impactful and effective interventions.
(434) 231-2558 View (434) 231-2558
Photo of Alexandra Berger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlottesville City County, VA
Alexandra Berger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I'm Alex (she/her/hers). Embarking on the journey with a new therapist can understandably be stressful, regardless of prior therapy experience. So, commend yourself for prioritizing your mental well-being. It takes courage to seek assistance and engage in self-reflection & I'm honored to accompany you on this path. With over four years of professional experience across diverse settings—ranging from inpatient and outpatient facilities to crisis call centers—I've supported individuals navigating challenges including substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, acute mental illnesses, and crises.
I'm Alex (she/her/hers). Embarking on the journey with a new therapist can understandably be stressful, regardless of prior therapy experience. So, commend yourself for prioritizing your mental well-being. It takes courage to seek assistance and engage in self-reflection & I'm honored to accompany you on this path. With over four years of professional experience across diverse settings—ranging from inpatient and outpatient facilities to crisis call centers—I've supported individuals navigating challenges including substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, acute mental illnesses, and crises.
(434) 483-5618 x1 View (434) 483-5618 x1
Photo of Janine I Russell in Charlottesville City County, VA
Janine I Russell
PNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Welcome! We have all experienced challenges in our lives like no other time. Sometimes we come to a place along our path where we realize what we’ve been doing is no longer serving its purpose and we are ready to manifest a change for ourselves. This often takes courage to make this decision as well as seeking help for direction. I am happy to help you navigate through life challenges. Some of my specialty areas include: addiction and recovery, trauma (physical/emotional/mental/sexual), stress management, nutrition, adjusting to life issues, family (current and family of origin)
Welcome! We have all experienced challenges in our lives like no other time. Sometimes we come to a place along our path where we realize what we’ve been doing is no longer serving its purpose and we are ready to manifest a change for ourselves. This often takes courage to make this decision as well as seeking help for direction. I am happy to help you navigate through life challenges. Some of my specialty areas include: addiction and recovery, trauma (physical/emotional/mental/sexual), stress management, nutrition, adjusting to life issues, family (current and family of origin)
(434) 299-0872 View (434) 299-0872

See more therapy options for Charlottesville City County

Existential Therapists

How does existential therapy work?

Existential therapy focuses on a patient’s inner experiences. The therapist tries to help the individual comprehend and alleviate symptoms by exploring their interior life. By confronting negative disquiet and emotions, the individual will hopefully become more open to finding meaning and purpose. This therapy can be administered to individuals or groups.

Is existential therapy evidence-based?

Existential therapy is an evidence-based practice. Research has determined that existential therapy can lead to significant improvement in the mental health of patients, and for some people it can be just as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy. The benefits of existential therapy are enduring, even long after treatment has ended.

How long does existential therapy last?

The goal of existential therapy is to understand a person’s internal experiences, which may sound like a lengthy process, but it does not have to be so in-depth. However, sessions are not short-term, and therapy can continue for months or up to a year. And because patients learn the theory behind existential therapy during treatment, they can also practice its tenets throughout life after therapy sessions have been completed.

Is existential therapy effective?

According to research, many patients find success with existential therapy. Researchers note that the therapy is particularly useful in improving feelings of isolation, feelings of purposelessness, as well as conditions such as anxiety and depression. Improvements in problem areas can persist even after the end of existential therapy, as individuals can continue working on themselves by using the tools they’ve developed during treatment.