Find a Therapist in Charlottesville, VA

Lisa Locke-Downer, PhD, is a compassionate psychologist dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, behavioral problems, and social concerns. She employs a cognitive-behavioral approach, greatly valuing family and school consultation as essential elements of her therapeutic process. Lisa welcomes collaboration with physicians, psychiatrists, and other treatment providers to ensure comprehensive care. With a strong belief in a collaborative problem-solving philosophy, she partners with clients to devise tailored intervention plans. Additionally, Lisa conducts psychological evaluations that assess cognitive, educational, and social/emotional functioning. These evaluations can be instrumental for private school admissions, diagnosing learning or processing disorders, ADHD identification, and acquiring standardized test accommodations, or enhancing understanding of emotional health. At Aligned Clinical & Educational Services (ACES), Lisa honors the richness of diversity and emphasizes the empowerment derived from access to relevant, research-based information and services. She is committed to working closely with clients to develop personalized assessment and intervention plans that address their unique needs.

Lisa Lotts is a dedicated clinical social worker and therapist with over 20 years of experience in the Charlottesville area, specializing in a holistic approach to therapy. She focuses on the individual, appreciating that each person is unique and complex, rather than merely addressing symptoms. In a safe, warm, and non-judgmental environment, Lisa provides compassionate support for clients as they explore their needs. She is adept at helping individuals identify patterns in their lives, gain insights, and navigate challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and significant life changes, including relationships and stages of life. Whether working with tweens, teenagers, or adults, Lisa firmly believes in the importance of self-care as a tool for building strength and resilience. Her therapeutic expertise includes modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Stress Based Reduction (MSBR), and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), backed by comprehensive training in trauma-informed care. Lisa is committed to ensuring clients feel safe, supported, and understood, and she offers a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to meet their individual needs, including solution-focused and strengths-based person-centered therapy.

Dr. Angie Mchugh is a dedicated school psychologist with over 30 years of experience in both public and private educational settings. For the past 17 years, she has also operated a thriving private practice, conducting comprehensive intellectual and psycho-educational assessments for children from preschool through college. Dr. Mchugh is passionate about supporting young adults who seek academic accommodations in graduate school and standardized tests such as the SAT and GRE. Specializing in intelligence testing as well as the diagnosis of learning disorders and ADHD, she administers achievement and IQ tests for private school admissions and special programs, ensuring an accurate understanding of each child's cognitive potential. Her thorough assessments not only provide valuable insights but also include tailored recommendations for educators and parents, along with suggested academic accommodations to foster student success. Although Dr. Mchugh is a licensed school psychologist and offers specialized services that are not reimbursable by insurance, she remains committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of her clients.

Rebecca McIntyre is a licensed clinical social worker, renowned for her extensive training and experience in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate the complexities of mental health challenges and chronic health conditions, including cancer. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, serious illness, relationship dynamics, and grief. Rebecca employs a compassionate and gentle approach, utilizing established strategies aimed at empowering clients to regain control of their lives and cultivate resilience alongside overall well-being. Among the therapeutic modalities she incorporates are cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based stress reduction, meaning-centered psychotherapy, self-compassion practices, and a variety of contemplative techniques. Rebecca's dedication to fostering healthy functioning ensures that her clients feel supported throughout their therapeutic journey.

Caroline Megargel is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and therapist, specializing in counseling children, adolescents, and young adults who face a spectrum of challenges—from the everyday stress of life to more significant issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and anger management. She believes that fostering a collaborative and change-oriented relationship with her clients is essential for promoting growth and healing. Caroline adopts a solution-focused approach, empowering her clients through innovative methods to resolve their problems and regulate their emotions. With a commitment to therapy that translates into real-world applications, she emphasizes that small changes can profoundly enhance a young person’s experience and life trajectory. Utilizing techniques rooted in cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered approaches, and family systems, she delivers evidence-based treatments in creative and effective ways. Caroline champions a healthy lifestyle for youth, incorporating mindfulness, activity for emotional health, and screen time awareness into her sessions. Located near a nature trail, she often conducts sessions outdoors, where the fresh air fosters an engaging and therapeutic environment for her clients.

Kristie Melson Wells is a compassionate clinical social worker and therapist, holding LCSW and NIC-A credentials, who thrives on helping individuals aged 12 and older. Her expertise lies in treating Trauma, Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Depression. She employs a variety of therapeutic interventions, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, all geared toward fostering healing and personal growth. As a native English speaker proficient in American Sign Language, Kristie is dedicated to providing therapy services tailored to her clients’ preferred modes of communication, whether that involves ASL, LSL, or sign-supported speech. With a commitment to professionalism and respect, Kristie is ready to welcome new clients into her Crozet and Richmond offices, offering a supportive and understanding therapeutic environment.

Margo Merryman Murray, LCSW, is a compassionate Clinical Social Worker and Therapist dedicated to supporting adults and elders (65+) who often seek therapy during times of feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or isolated. Margo recognizes that these challenging emotions can manifest as symptoms of anxiety, depression, or difficulty managing anger, and she aims to create a warm, consistent, and safe environment for her clients to explore these complex feelings. Through her effective therapeutic relationship, she helps individuals uncover the profound messages behind their symptoms and fosters a transformative process that leads to the rediscovery of their innate strengths. Margo has a rich background in working with individuals from various walks of life, including creative individuals and those navigating significant life transitions, such as new parents. With experience in addressing anxiety, depression, substance abuse recovery, and relationship issues, Margo believes that seeking therapy is a courageous and rewarding leap towards healing and understanding. She provides a fresh perspective and empathetic listening, which can rejuvenate her clients' sense of self and facilitate new insights about their life stories.

Megan Osburn is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in guiding individuals, families, and elders through life's complexities. Her ideal clients are those eager to delve into self-reflection and personal growth. Unlike the insensitive portrayals often seen in movies and television, therapy with her is characterized by warmth and genuine connection. Megan places a strong emphasis on building rapport, respecting boundaries, and collaborating with clients as they navigate challenges such as stress, relationship issues, and self-esteem. She understands that while her clients may not feel whole, they possess inherent strengths that can be enhanced rather than 'fixed'. With skills in Person-Centered therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and various multicultural approaches, she provides a safe, non-judgmental environment for exploration. For anyone ready to take on this sometimes challenging yet rewarding journey, Megan is excited to guide them every step of the way.

Dr. Rebecca Plesko-Dubois, a licensed psychologist fluent in American Sign Language (ASL), excels in providing comprehensive assessment services aimed at uncovering strengths, clarifying challenges, and connecting individuals with valuable resources. With expertise in psychological testing and evaluation, she addresses concerns spanning across attention, behavioral issues, relationships, social skills, mood, and cognitive functioning. Dr. Plesko-Dubois customizes reports and recommendations tailored for medical diagnoses, mental health interventions, educational planning, and vocational planning, ensuring a patient-centered approach for all ages. Her consulting services are available for families, schools, and community agencies dealing with individuals who have complex support needs. She is particularly knowledgeable about supporting both children and adults facing challenges such as giftedness, deafness, blindness, autism spectrum disorder, and anxiety disorders, among others. Dr. Plesko-Dubois is dedicated to fostering understanding and implementation of effective strategies for navigating life's challenges.

Jamie Wyatt, MA, LPC, NCC, is a compassionate counselor dedicated to helping adults navigate through life's challenges toward a more fulfilled existence. With expertise in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD, Jamie deeply understands how daunting the journey into therapy can be. With a commitment to creating a safe and collaborative environment, Jamie encourages clients to share their stories without fear of judgment. Through a blend of humor, empathy, and skilled listening, Jamie walks alongside clients as they explore their feelings of loss, trauma, and dissatisfaction in life. Influenced by cutting-edge neurobiology and attachment research, Jamie believes that everyone has the inherent capacity for growth and healing. By utilizing diverse therapeutic modalities including Compassion Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as elements of mindfulness and psychodynamic approaches, Jamie tailors each client's experience to their unique needs. Ready to embark on this transformative journey? Jamie provides a nurturing space for clients to begin turning their pain into restorative healing and self-discovery, at a pace that feels right for them.

Dr. Tim Rambo is a licensed professional counselor with a PhD, dedicated to helping individuals achieve meaningful change, relief, and insight by fostering a deeper understanding of their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. He teaches practical coping skills and guides clients in reprocessing distressing experiences and memories. Employing a mindfulness and strength-based approach, he integrates techniques such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) when appropriate. Through this collaborative journey, clients are empowered to connect with their inner positive voice and truths, reducing the grip of automatic behaviors and overwhelming thoughts that often arise in challenging situations. This transformative process leads to enhanced self-acceptance and improved confidence in interpersonal relationships. Dr. Rambo's extensive experience spans work with adults, including those facing cancer, as well as his background as a former high school guidance counselor, where he supported teens in outpatient and residential programs. He possesses a nuanced understanding of the underlying factors that can inhibit academic achievement and healthy relationships. EMDR, in particular, effectively targets distressing memories and emotions, fortifying positive experiences while alleviating feelings of stress, anger, shame, isolation, and depression. Dr. Rambo adopts an eclectic, client-centered approach aimed at empowering individuals in their pursuit of desired change and personal strength.

Ivy Road is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor (MS, LPC) who specializes in providing support to individuals of all ages, including preteens, children, teens, adults, and elders. With years of experience in addressing trauma and PTSD, anxiety, and substance use, Ivy employs a diverse range of therapeutic approaches that include Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Family Systems therapy. Her holistic methodology also incorporates Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, allowing her to tailor her approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Ivy’s empathetic nature and focus on strength-based techniques create a safe and nurturing environment where clients can explore their challenges and work toward meaningful change.

Hannah Robinson is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and therapist specializing in trauma, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). With a Master's in Social Work from the University of Georgia, which she completed in 2015, Hannah has a strong foundation in therapy that emphasizes positive psychology and cognitive behavioral approaches. She works inclusively with teenagers, adults, and elders, creating a supportive environment where individuals can freely express themselves and feel truly understood. Hannah’s goal is to empower her clients with the coping skills necessary for self-sufficiency, ultimately aiming for them to thrive independently. Her expertise extends to helping clients navigate adjustments in their lives due to family changes, employment shifts, or relocations. Known for her warmth, she values collaboration with each person to establish tailored treatment goals. With advanced training in PTSD treatment and certification in Cognitive Processing Therapy, Hannah is well-equipped to guide her clients on their journeys to healing and self-discovery.