Sweska is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has spent the past few years doing intensive clinical work in the community with children, adolescents, adults, and family systems. She has also worked in an outpatient setting providing outpatient therapy. Sweska enjoys working with a wide range of individuals and families and was intensively trained in Functional Family Therapy. She has worked with blended families and families with complex challenges, including substance abuse/addiction, court/legal involvement, trauma, and divorce. Additionally, Sweska has completed 150+ hours of Play Therapy training and all of her supervision to become a Registered Play Therapist. She is strengths-based and solution focused in her approach and is comfortable using “outside the box” strategies to assist individuals and families with gaining insight and finding a path forward. Sweska is trauma informed, LGBTQ competent/affirming and a culturally competent therapist. She works with individuals ages 5-75, families, and couples and accepts several major insurances. [Read More]

I am passionate about helping people. I enjoy seeing growth, change, and seeing my patients identify hidden potentials. I enjoy seeing my patients being comfortable to express themselves during sessions. I believe that most of what we need to conquer this life is built within us. I specialize in helping my patients obtain insight into the things that make them strong, in addition to helping my patients recognize the power of their character. If you’re looking to overcome, to recognize your strengths and to propel forward with the life that’s ahead of you, I’m here for you! Life can be challenging however working together makes us Overcomers! [Read More]

With nearly 40 years as a licensed mental health professional, I’ve focused my approach on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). In addition to my private practice, I developed and directed inpatient and outpatient treatment programs for substance abuse and mental health problems. My years of experience as a trainer, educator, and clinical supervisor in various settings have contributed to my areas of expertise. More importantly, they’ve resulted in a long list of successful cases. Outside of my career, I pursue a full life. Sailing, cycling, kayaking, travel and more. I have three grown children, and two grandchildren. I spend time exploring the region, cooking, and reading, and enjoying time with my partner, Karen, and our two cats. [Read More]

Alec is a Licensed Professional Counselor and the Clinical Director at the CFCC. Alec was awarded a BA in Religious Studies at The College of Charleston in South Carolina. After graduating from Charleston in 1999, Alec worked as a Middle School Teacher in Independent Schools in both Baltimore Maryland, and Charlottesville, Virginia. Alec then completed his MA in counseling from Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida in 2011, and then joined the CFCC staff. Alec is a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, with emphasis on applied Neuroscience for treating Anxiety, Panic, OCD, and Worry. Alec has found that Biblical truths always blend seamlessly with evidenced-based therapeutic models. As such, he utilizes an integrative approach that draws on such theories as Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure, Person Centered, Relational, and Family Systems. Alec ascribes to the theory that real and lasting change occurs, not just in addressing behaviors, but through addressing the deeper issues of the heart. He believes the redemption and forgiveness that is offered through Christ’s death, resurrection, and Christ’s anticipated return, is what ultimately provides hope. He views his role to be that of someone who journeys alongside his clients, while God speaks into their lives. [Read More]

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of adults and older adolescents in Richmond, Virginia. I have been working as a professional Social Worker for over 30 years and have been in Private Practice full time for 20+ years. Among my areas of expertise are anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders and trauma; whether from childhood or more recent traumatic experiences. I also help individuals resolve work struggles and life transitions. [Read More]

Dr. Mindes is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Virginia. She provides counseling to individuals and couples struggling with infertility, the stress of fertility treatment, pregnancy loss, PCOS, premature ovarian insufficiency, postpartum adjustment, and those considering building their families through third-party reproduction, including same sex couples and single parents. She also performs third-party reproduction assessments for donor egg, sperm, embryo, and gestational surrogacy arrangements. Dr. Mindes has conducted research and written on the psychological responses to infertility and fertility treatment, and co-authored the chapter, “Counseling Known Participants in Third-Party Reproduction” in the book, Fertility Counseling: Clinical Guide and Case Studies, edited by Sharon Covington. She serves on the Executive Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine’s (ASRM) Mental Health Professional Group (MHPG) and is a Professional Member of RESOLVE. Dr. Mindes received her Bachelor’s degree from The University of Chicago, and her Master’s and Doctoral degrees from Virginia Commonwealth University. She sees patients at her office in Richmond, Virginia. [Read More]

Syreeta’s counseling approach with clients of all ages emphasizes the development of positive self-esteem. Her person-centered style inspires discovery, growth, and healing through reflective listening and encouragement. Syreeta is an interactive and engaging therapist who has helped many clients with autism, ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, family issues, anger management and working through grief. Her philosophy is that illness becomes wellness when togetherness is a key factor. Syreeta earned her MSW from Virginia Commonwealth University and has been in practice for five years. [Read More]

Lloyd Chaser has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for 27 years. His specialties include working with depression, anxiety, loss/grief, trauma, PTSD, substance abuse, and adults. Lloyd enjoys photography, spending time with friends, motorcycling, and traveling. [Read More]

Dr. Riaz completed his General Psychiatry residency training at Bergen Regional Medical Center in New Jersey where he served as Chief Resident. Due to his exceptional work and dedication in caring for his patients he was awarded “Outstanding Resident of the Year” award in 2013. He went on to complete a subspecialty fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia where he served as Chief Fellow. Dr. Riaz treats children, adolescents and adults and he specializes in treating a wide range of mental health problems including Autism, ADHD, behavioral issues, mood disorders, trauma related disorders / PTSD, anxiety disorders, adjustment difficulties with life stressors and grief. His evaluations are comprehensive and treatment plans are tailored around individual needs. After a thorough evaluation his recommendations may involve therapy, conventional psychiatric medications, alternate treatments or a combination of these treatments. When managing medications, he incorporates treatments backed by the best evidence and clinical experience. [Read More]

Brian McClinton has over 17 years of experience helping individuals and their families create life-long change. Through his work as an Exceptional Education Teacher specializing in Emotional Disturbance, to his work in: group homes, residential mental health facilities, and years as a provider of programs and services in the community, he has seen individuals and families connect and create change through the emotional process and cognitive resiliency. In 2014 Brian founded Virginia Counseling Associates, a community and outpatient focused practice serving clients and families in Richmond and the surrounding areas. Whether families were working to craft a new normal after a tragedy, or with couples and individuals moving through a transition points; it has been Brian’s mission and goal to help these groups find solutions unique to their needs while confronting some of life’s harshest difficulties. [Read More]

Licia Thomas-Wagoner, is the owner of Balance Counseling, LLC, located in the Life Enrichment Center of Virginia in Chesterfield County. Licia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 18 years of experience in the human services field. She is passionate about supporting individuals in their journey to a healthy, balanced, and meaningful life. Apart from owning and operating Balance Counseling, Licia has worked at a medical family practice in Midlothian, VA as the onsite Psychotherapist for an integrative healthcare initiative.Over the course of her career, Licia has also worked in a variety of behavioral health settings including: outpatient therapy treatment facilities, a psychosocial rehabilitation program for individuals with severe mental illness, and a domestic violence resource center for survivors of emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. Additionally, she has taught as an adjunct professor in the Masters of Social Work program at Virginia Commonwealth University. As an interactive, solution-focused therapist, Licia provides counseling and educational services to a broad spectrum of adults age 18+ desiring individual therapy. She specializes in trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, stress-management, self-esteem building, immigrant issues, and expressive arts therapies involving art, music, writing, meditation, yoga, and movement. As a bilingual/bicultural clinician, Licia is also able to serve the Latino population by providing counseling services in Spanish. Her therapeutic approach is best described as compassionate, person-centered, and strengths-based. Through a collaborative partnership, Licia seeks to empower individuals to develop positive self-care practices and realize their wellness potential for optimal balanced living. [Read More]

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the Fan area of Richmond, Virginia. After obtaining an undergraduate degree from The University of Georgia, I completed the Master of Social Work program through Virginia Commonwealth University. My background and training focused on the treatment of serious mental illness and varying comorbidities with an emphasis on substance use. I am an active member of the National Association of Social Workers and believe that focusing on the overall wellness of an individual is an integral part of treatment. [Read More]

During the 10+ years of being a mental health counselor, I have helped individuals, couples, and families find healing and understanding in desperate situations. I am the owner/founder of Mohammad Baig, LLC, a mental health wellness company located in Virginia. I am a bilingual licensed professional counselor and began my mental health career in 2009. I provide individuals, couples, and family therapy to clients of all ages. I have experience in working with clients of a variety of ages, backgrounds and presenting concerns. I take a gentle but direct approach with clients and work well with both children and adults. I hold a master’s degree in clinical psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University, a master’s degree in community counseling (Chi Sigma Iota), and a bachelor’s degree in psychology (Psi Chi) from George Mason University. I enjoy traveling, cooking, boxing, and spending time with friends and family. [Read More]

Mr. Bender joined Summit in January 2020 as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He received his MSW from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2007 and has over 10 years of experience in outpatient therapy services. Adam works with adolescents and adults specializing in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues and life stressors. He utilizes a client centered, strengths-based approach to assist clients in achieving their goals and objectives. Adam believes that the client-therapist relationship is essential. His easy-going personality and use of empathy and humor has been effective in further strengthening this therapeutic relationship. Adam is extensively trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and is currently working towards completing his certification with an EMDRIA-approved consultant. He has served on several statewide boards (CTAB and BIP Board) that advocated for the rights of victims of domestic violence. Mr. Bender is married and a busy dad with a young son, Noah. He enjoys camping, outdoor and water activities and live music. [Read More]

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor currently working with adolescents, families, and adults of all ages in the Greater Richmond area. My hope is to be the best possible support to people hoping to live a fuller life and make healthy, positive changes. For the past 10 years I’ve worked in multiple clinical environments including outpatient and in-home settings. My experiences have included treating younger and older adults, adolescents struggling with big emotions, and families confronting difficult changes. Most of my clients are seeking assistance when they are overwhelmed by periods of depression, worry or anxiety, or want change unhelpful behavior patterns. Additionally, I specialize in helping men and women who have survived traumatic experiences. I also help clients address issues related to managing intense emotions, developing a reasonable work-life balance, generating better intimacy and healthy sexuality as well as making decisions in accordance with their personal values.During therapy sessions, I offer clients a safe, welcoming space to practice healthy habits, implement solutions to overcome problems, or discuss difficult or painful subjects. When working with teens or families, I’ll occasionally incorporate art, humor, into my therapy sessions. Whether I’m offering 1-on-1 support with a client, leading a group, or meeting with a family, I’ve always believed in ‘listening first’ and helping people increase the skills they already have (but may not be aware of) in order to adopt a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle. Whether it’s providing a listening ear, giving feedback, or practicing specific skills, I hope to help you live your best possible life. I believe that the experience of therapy can be life changing and offers folks an opportunity learn more about themselves and others with the assistance of a counselor. My role to to help people understand their fears, recover from a painful past, and reach toward their biggest hopes. [Read More]