Lisa Panelo, LCSW — Therapist in Virginia

Hi there, I'm Lisa!

Feeling sad, anxious, or overwhelmed can be difficult to manage. When those feelings interfere with your daily life or sense of fulfillment, it's okay to seek support. I believe in taking a whole-person approach to therapy—understanding not just the challenges, but the full context of your life.

My focus

I work with women and men stuck in cycles of anxiety, stress, depression, and emotional exhaustion—those who wake up already overwhelmed, second-guess every decision, or feel like they're barely holding it together. I also specialize in supporting individuals navigating infertility, IVF, and adoption.

My approach

I use a blend of evidence-based approaches, tailoring each session to meet your individual needs and goals. We will work together to identify thought patterns that are both helpful and unhelpful, and develop strategies to change or manage the unhelpful thoughts holding you back.

My communication style

Clients can expect to feel seen, heard, and understood in our sessions. You'll gain clarity, develop a renewed sense of hope, and build confidence as you move forward—not alone, but with a trusted ally beside you.

My journey to mental healthcare

From the time I was young, I was drawn to helping others. As I learned how to use various ways to help cope for myself, I was drawn more to wanting to help others through difficult times. As I later experienced infertility, treatments, and adoption, I more deeply experienced the intense emotions and wanted to support others through these times.

My goals for you

I will help you regain control from overwhelming anxiety, stress, and emotional exhaustion. Some issues benefit more from other types of therapy, and some benefit more from supportive therapy, gaining strength from knowing you are not alone when coping with your struggles.

Our first session

Our work together will begin with getting to know you, understanding your current challenges, and exploring the experiences that have shaped who and where you are today. We'll identify the goals you'd like to achieve and take meaningful steps toward reaching them. I'll be here to support you every step of the way.

I identify as...

Cis, Female
Caucasian or White
Christian

Expertise

Specialties

+ 13 more

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Motivational Interviewing

Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

+ 4 more

Focus populations

First Generation American/Immigrant Parents

Military/Veterans

+ 2 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem

+ 40 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Lisa Panelo