Resident Therapist, Supervisee in Social Work

Works with ages 4+, virtual only.

Emmin in their own words:

What is the source of your joy? My style focuses on working collaboratively to explore what makes you, you. In my therapeutic approach, I look to unpack any anxiety, shame, or fear to understand what inside you is asking to be heard, embraced, and uplifted. As a nonbinary and neurodivergent therapist, my goal is to encourage my clients to honor all parts of themselves and to navigate self-discovery with nonjudgmental curiosity. I believe that my clients know best about the systems in their lives and within themselves and use a supportive approach rooted in humanistic theories to walk alongside them towards their goals in transformation or acceptance.

I believe that sustainable healing takes place where there is play, art, movement, imagination, and nourished hope. I received my Master of Social Work with a concentration in clinical practice from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2023. My background includes working with those who have experienced interpersonal violence and those who are navigating complex trauma, identity exploration, or attachment-based obstacles. I support clients in the ways they feel empowered to attribute meaning in their lives and embrace clients within all relationship types, structures, and dynamics. My hope is that through a collaborative process together, my clients can foster their hope and resilience to harness joy within themselves and within the meaningful relationships they share.

Resident Therapist, Supervisee in Social Work

Works with ages 4-18, in-person.

Marissa in their own words:

Hello & welcome! My name is Marissa Smitton, and I use she/they pronouns. I have a B.S. in clinical psychology and an MSW in social work. I have over a decade’s worth of experience providing person-centered, neuroaffirmative therapy and counseling to individuals, groups, and families.

I strive to provide holistic therapeutic support to clients, support that decenters power structures and respectfully addresses various intersectionalities of client’s identities. I utilize various modalities in my practice, such as trauma informed care, motivational interviewing, CBT, and DBT. I prioritize cultural humility and building rapport with each client.

I believe that each client is the expert of their own lives, and I welcome all client’s input into promoting their mental health journey.

Resident Therapist, Supervisee in Social Work

Works with ages 16+, virtual and in-person.

Ruby in their own words:

Seeking therapy can be a daunting task- especially for those of us who hold historically marginalized identities. As a nonbinary, neurodivergent therapist, I want my clients to feel empowered to seek support, accommodations, and solutions that work with their unique identities and neurotypes. I firmly believe that my role as a social worker does not begin and end in the therapy office. In my practice, I also aim to recognize and unpack the effects of systemic oppression (racism, capitalism, ableism, etc.) on my clients, my community, and the field of social work itself.

I offer short term (1-3 hour) education sessions for folks who are looking to understand and develop strategies for their own neurodivergence, as well as more traditional long term counseling. My approach is non-pathologizing and disability positive - my goal isn’t to “fix” or “cure” my neurodivergent clients. Rather, I aim to highlight their strengths, collaborate with them to create an accessible therapy space, and empower them to advocate for their unique needs and desires.

My previous work experience includes individual therapy with queer/trans folks and harm reduction programs in community health settings. I graduated Virginia Commonwealth University in 2021 with a Master’s in Social Work, and am currently pursuing licensure under the supervision of Rachel Boggan, LCSW.