North Chesterfield, VA Local Support & Community Resources

Ann Abell is a highly respected Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist with over 20 years of experience dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. Transitioning from diverse clinical settings that include residential treatment, community-based services, and educational environments, she has cultivated a deep expertise in addressing issues such as Trauma, Attachment, Relationship Patterns, Depression, Anxiety, Neuro-diversity, and Self-Esteem. Ann is particularly skilled in working with families involved in the foster care system and navigating the adoption process. Her practice is LGBTQIA+ affirming, creating a safe space for all clients. Ann’s therapeutic approach is characterized by a variety of client-centered, play-based interventions, including sensory integration, sand tray therapy, art, and filial therapies. Certified in Theraplay and MIM Assessment Level I, she possesses specialized training in neuro-diversity, anxiety, trauma, attachment, and child-parent relational therapy. Ann operates from a strengths-based perspective, believing firmly in each client's capacity to heal, surmount challenges, and achieve personal goals. She values collaborative efforts with parents and guardians, providing essential support, education, and practical skills that extend well beyond the therapy room.

Melissa Andersen is a compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with an impressive educational foundation that includes a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, a Master of Science in Psychology focused on Child Development from Southern New Hampshire University, and another Master of Science in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University. With over ten years of experience in the mental health field, Melissa has dedicated her career to supporting children, adolescents, adults, and elders across the life spectrum. She specializes in various therapy types, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Art Therapy, among others. Melissa’s rich experience includes working with children and families to enhance mental health and safety, while also guiding adults in developing independent living skills and managing mental health symptoms. Her tenure at a residential facility for at-risk youth highlights her dedication to those with significant mental health challenges. Melissa is known for her flexible and open-minded approach, tailoring her therapy to meet the unique needs and strengths of each individual she works with. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys photography, cooking, traveling, watching movies, reading, crafting, and spending quality time in nature with her dogs.

Paula Cales, a licensed professional counselor with an MAT and MA, leads IC Wellness, a nurturing space where individuals can discover enlightenment and tap into their inner resources and strengths to enhance their mental health and awareness. IC Wellness aims to foster a comfortable and supportive environment that facilitates the development of strong clinical relationships. It is believed that through this partnership, clients are empowered to utilize their unique strengths and capabilities to face a variety of challenges. The practice specializes in addressing concerns such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders, suicidal impulses, stress, trauma, low self-esteem, teen issues, family considerations, and grief. Additionally, IC Wellness provides support for job and career issues, educational decisions, and broader mental and emotional health challenges. With a steadfast commitment to professional care and individualized service, IC Wellness strives to positively impact the lives of all clients.