Ursula (she/her/hers) is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who, inspired by her  interest in both creative arts and psychology, graduated from Eastern Virginia Medical School in 2011 with an M.S. in Art Therapy and Counseling, and has been practicing therapy with diverse populations since then.  She began her career as a therapist working extensively as a clinician and then supervisor providing in-home therapy to families with high-risk youth, and was trained in using family therapy approaches as well as crisis intervention.  She has worked in outpatient private practice settings for the past eight years and has sought advanced training in working with individuals, couples, and families across the life span.  Ursula’s own experiences in pregnancy and motherhood have also inspired her to pursue training in perinatal mental health needs, as well as somatic therapy approaches.  Her approach is holistic and evidence-based, and she takes a collaborative approach with clients, customizing each treatment plan based on each individual’s unique needs. 

Ursula provides individual, couples, and family therapy to young adults, adults, and older adults.   Particular niches that Ursula has developed include working with women, individuals identifying as LGBTQ+, fellow therapists, other helping professions such as nurses and doctors, both birthing and non-birthing partners experiencing postpartum anxiety or depression, and individuals who identify as neurodivergent or have been diagnosed with ADHD or autism.  She frequently incorporates education about the mind-body connection and somatic regulation techniques when appropriate.  Ursula has a degree in art therapy, which is an approach she offers in addition to more traditional methods, as working with art supplies can provide a successful means for many clients to learn new ways to explore difficult emotions, self-regulate, and experience relief from somatic distress.

In her own words: “I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most important part of therapy.  I take a collaborative approach and provide an environment that is compassionate, affirming, and holistic, while also practical and solution-focused when appropriate.  I aim to help those I work with feel more confident that they are able to navigate difficult situations, understand themselves better, and have increased satisfaction in relationships with others.  I also apply a social justice lens as it's vital for me to take into account the effect that systemic and sociopolitical factors may have on one’s functioning.”