I love being a therapist, and I want to help you thrive

I believe therapy can change people’s lives for the better-  I’ve seen it happen.  I love the process of getting to know new clients, forming a working relationship with them, and seeing them bravely take steps towards health and more fulfilling relationships and lives.  I see therapy as a collaborative process between clients and myself, and I enjoy walking alongside my courageous clients as they work to reach their goals.

Most clients come to me with a trauma history, often times unrecognized.  While there may not be quick and easy answers for the complex challenges that you’re facing, I carefully and respectfully handle your stories- your heart and soul-  that you share with me.  With my expertise and experience, I join with you and help uncover your  personal strengths and hopes, and together we work on improving your life.

I know what it’s like to sit on your side of the couch  

I’ve done my own work in therapy and have experienced both personally and professionally the power of transformation.  I want you to have the same healing and growth in your own life.  I aim to create a non-judgmental atmosphere of growth, where it’s safe to take your mask off and be authentic.

What to expect

In my first sessions with you I will listen to your concerns, and try to get an understanding of your goals and values.  In other words- what’s your end result?  If our work together is effective and you’re happy with the outcome, then what will be different in your life?   During this time we’re getting to know one another, and as I gain your trust, my hope is that in my calm & judgment-free environment you will feel safe enough to share your inner world with me.  The relationship that we form is crucial for your success in working with me.   I believe in each person’s value and potential, and that it can best be realized in the context of empathic, supportive relationships enveloped in unconditional positive regard.  My therapeutic style is warm and  non-judgmental, and I like to use some gentle humor.  Together we do some digging and identify some of the obstacles in your way-  what has made it difficult for you to move closer to your goal, what are the walls that you keep running into?  Let’s re-write the stories you have about yourself that are holding you back.

I love incorporating the powerful work of The Daring Way™ into my sessions, and as one of the only providers trained in this methodology in Hampton Roads, I am thrilled to be able to offer this powerful process to my clients.  With it we explore topics such as vulnerability, courage, shame, and worthiness and we use this highly-experiential methodology to move toward more, authentic and wholehearted living. Read more about it in The Daring Way tab on my site.  I also draw from Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and Narrative therapy techniques in my work.

As of 2020, my therapy practice is online.

Jamie’s Bio

I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Suffolk, Virginia and have experience working with individuals (including adolescents), couples, and families.  I’m also a Certified Daring Way Facilitator for  The Daring Way™.

A native Texan, I studied Psychology at Texas A&M University and then moved to Virginia in 2003.  I got my degree in Marriage & Family Counseling at the College of William and Mary.  Since 2006, I’ve worked in a variety of settings in the counseling and human services field with people facing a myriad of challenges-  from providing  in-home counseling with struggling families to training and supporting foster parents as they took on the challenges of adding a child into their home.  I began educating future human service professionals at Old Dominion University in 2010, and started seeing clients in a private practice setting shortly therafter.  My areas of interests include families, women’s issues, and trauma recovery.  I love balancing my therapy practice with teaching and supporting eager students in their pursuit of a meaningful career in the helping field.  I live in Suffolk with my family, including 3 lively kids and 2 dogs.