How to find the right therapist in Virginia

When choosing a therapist in Virginia, it's best to reflect on what you’re looking for and ask yourself which of the following criteria are most important to you: Do they accept your insurance? Do you need a therapist who specializes in a specific mental health concern such as depression, anxiety, or trauma? Are you looking for someone to work with you individually? Or are you looking for someone to support you as a couple or family? Would you be more comfortable partnering with a therapist of a certain race, gender expression, sexual orientation, religious, or cultural background?

Can I use my insurance?

Yes! Therapists on the Rula platform are in-network with most major insurance plans. Rula patients typically pay $15 per session, although your individual cost may vary based on your insurance benefits and deductible. We’ll work with your insurance to confirm your estimated per-session cost before your first appointment. Ready to get started? Click here to browse available therapists who accept your insurance.

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

There’s no right or wrong reason to start therapy. Whether you’re seeking help navigating a life transition or managing symptoms of anxiety or depression, therapy is an effective treatment for many types of concerns – all you need is an open mind and a general sense of what you’d like to explore with a therapist. Still unsure? Head to our blog to learn more.

How soon can I meet with a therapist?

Therapists in Rula’s network are available to meet as soon as tomorrow. Click here to explore therapists and book your first session in minutes.

What should I consider when choosing a therapist?

It depends on your personal preferences and goals. Whether you’re seeking a therapist who specializes in certain mental health conditions, shares your ethnic background, or is available to meet at your preferred time – Rula makes it easy to search and filter by what matters most to you. If you don’t feel like your first choice was a match, don’t worry – we’ll help you switch to a different therapist in our network. Check out our blog post for more pointers on finding your best-fit therapist.

How do I know if I need therapy or psychiatry?

If you’re experiencing severe symptoms that interfere with your daily functioning, you may want to consider starting with a psychiatric provider who can assess your needs and prescribe medication if deemed necessary. If your symptoms are mild or moderate, therapy may be a better starting point. No matter where you begin your journey – your provider will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that’s based on your individual needs and concerns. Still unsure? Visit our blog to learn more about the differences.

Does Rula offer in-person appointments?

Currently, Rula offers in-person therapy in some states. For those living in other states, there are many benefits to online therapy!

Can Rula help me find a therapist?

Absolutely. Rula’s network of 10,000+ licensed providers represent more than 80 clinical specialties and a diverse range of backgrounds – making it easier to find the care you need. Once you provide us with some basic information, we’ll generate a curated list of in-network therapists who are licensed in your state and accepting new patients. From there, you can filter by what matters most to you and explore individual biographies until you find a match. Ready to get started?

What types of care can I access through Rula?

Providers in Rula’s network specialize in individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and psychiatric care (i.e., medication management).

Who is eligible to access care through Rula?

Individuals aged 5 and older are eligible to receive care in any state where Rula is available.

How will I meet with my therapist?

Rula specializes in online therapy – giving you the flexibility to meet with your therapist from wherever you’re most comfortable. We’ll send you an appointment reminder containing a secure link to your scheduled Zoom session approximately 24 hours before your session.

Connect with Therapists who accept United Medical Resources (UMR) in Virginia

Book a session as soon as April 20

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

30+ therapists who accept UMR

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

30+ therapists who accept UMR

Nicole Kleiman

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPC

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Nicole Kleiman, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Nicole has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology from University of Central Florida.

Virginia

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Mood Disorders

Relationship Issues

Stress

Style

Responsive

Attuned

Motivational

I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, emotion regulation, relationship distress, and self-esteem. Many responses we struggle with connect to past traumatic events. I prioritize the areas you wish to address and tailor my approach to your needs, believing in client autonomy.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Tara Bowles

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW

•

15+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Tara Bowles, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Tara has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Richmond, VA

Specialties

Anxiety

Bipolar Disorder

Depression

Relationship Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Candid

Motivational

I am a clinical social worker with counseling experience working with kids, teens, adults, and families.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Tekisha Norwood

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW

•

12+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Tekisha Norwood, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Tekisha has a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) from University of Southern Mississippi.

Virginia

Specialties

Addiction

Anxiety

Bipolar Disorder

Depression

Stress

Style

Responsive

Candid

Supportive

Life can be challenging, and I'm here to meet you where you are. Many of us endure distress that causes mental, emotional, and physical anguish. Changing the way you think can influence how you feel and how you react to life's challenges. I'll equip you with tools to challenge automatic thoughts and relieve tension caused by stress.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Arlene Pitchford

LPC

•

20+ years

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Arlene Pitchford, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Arlene has a Masters of Education (MED) in Community Counseling from Virginia State University.

Richmond, VA

Specialties

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Outcome-oriented

Approachable

Supportive

I provide a safe space for individuals to explore and navigate their mental well-being. With a compassionate and understanding approach, I share valuable resources, insights, and support. Let's embark on a journey towards emotional resilience and inner peace together.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Rachel Townes

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPC

•

6+ years

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Rachel Townes, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Rachel has a Master in Counseling (MC) Clinical Mental Health Couseling from Regent University.

Suffolk, VA

Specialties

Addiction

Substance Use

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Practical

Warm

Supportive

Counseling is building relationships that produce strength-based behaviors for healing and recovery. My preferred modalities are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Therapy, and other therapies for addictions counseling, trauma-informed care, and family relational matters.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Sarah Olson

LCSW

•

15+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Sarah Olson, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Sarah has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Southern Illinois University.

Virginia

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Supportive

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Nicole O'malia-Guessford

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW

•

20+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Nicole O'malia-Guessford, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Nicole has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Clinical Social Work from Bryn Mawr College.

Virginia

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Curious

I work with clients using a holistic and integrative approach. My core principles are compassion, collaboration, and transparency, and I believe in focusing on your strengths as we work together toward healing.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Joseph Autry

LPC

•

5+ years

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Joseph Autry, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Joseph has a Master in Counseling (MC) from Liberty University.

Abingdon, VA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Substance Use

Suicidal Ideation

Style

Directive

Attuned

Collaborative

In our first session, we'll discover what your struggles are. From there, we can discover the causes of those struggles and work on the best ways to cope with them.

“Joseph takes the time to make sure I feel heard, acknowledged my successes, and guides me through the tougher weeks. He’s consistent, which is super important to me. He’s also very kind and patient.”

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 27th

Available virtually

Shideh Sarmadi

LPC

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Shideh Sarmadi, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Shideh has a Master of Arts (MA) from UNC at Charlotte.

Virginia

Specialties

Anxiety

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Cultural Stress

Depression

Mood Disorders

Style

Exploratory

Attuned

Motivational

I am a licensed professional counselor in the State of Virginia. My goal as a counselor is to empower clients to mindfully change their lives in a positive manner by focusing on recovery and welfare, and promoting healthy personal growth.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Lerese-Adrienne Deberry

LPC

•

7+ years

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Lerese-Adrienne Deberry, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Lerese-Adrienne has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Professional Counseling /Clinical Mental Mental Health from South University, Richmond.

Glen Allen, VA

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Behavioral Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Approachable

Empowering

I am passionate about working with adolescents, young adults, and seniors.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Summer Post

LPC

•

5+ years

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Summer Post, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Summer has a Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University.

Virginia

Specialties

Anxiety

Chronic Illness

Stress

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Outcome-oriented

Attuned

Empowering

I work with individuals who have experienced adverse experiences to help them take control back in their lives.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Angelika Wimmer

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW

•

16+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Angelika Wimmer, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Angelika has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from West Virginia University.

Roanoke, VA

Specialties

Anger Management

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Insightful

Gentle

Curious

I work with children, adults, and elderly people. The treatment modalities I use are DBT, CBT, and Trauma-Informed Care.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Theresa Shuart

LMFT

•

28+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Theresa Shuart, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Theresa has a Master's of Health Services Administration (MHSA) from Army-Baylor University (2010), a Doctor of Education (EDD) in Counseling from George Washington University and a Master of Science in Education (MS ED) in Agency Counseling from University of Virginia.

Rich Creek, VA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Style

Outcome-oriented

Approachable

Collaborative

I work with clients of all ages using solution-focused and systemic therapies. I help people navigate depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and children's emotional and behavioral concerns. My approach combines warmth with practical skill-building.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Mary Winford

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPC

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Mary Winford, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Mary has a Master in Counseling (MC) Clinical Mental Health from Wake Forest University School of Medicine.

Virginia

Specialties

Anxiety

Borderline Personality

Depression

Stress

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Outcome-oriented

Approachable

Collaborative

Amazingly, you are coming to therapy. I congratulate you on taking that step. I will be here for you along the way of your therapeutic journey. I have experience supporting clients through anxiety, depression, adjustments, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, and ADHD.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Cemetrius Rolle

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Cemetrius Rolle, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Cemetrius has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of North Carolina, Greensboro.

Virginia

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Style

Responsive

Gentle

Supportive

I'm a compassionate psychotherapist passionate about working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I take an eclectic, client-centered approach, drawing from evidence-based modalities to help each person achieve meaningful progress and personal growth. My goal is to meet you where you are, tailoring treatment to your unique needs.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Continue exploring providers

See more providers

Previous providers

A closer look at Rula’s mental health providers in Virginia

Specialty

Our providers specialize in a wide range of mental health needs, so you get care that truly fits you.

75

clinical specialties represented

Gender

You deserve a provider who understands your identity. Rula providers offer care that’s inclusive and affirming.

6

gender identities represented

Race & Ethnicity

Our providers represent a variety of backgrounds and cultures. Find providers who share or respect your lived experiences.

10

ethnicities represented across Rula providers

Therapy

Whether it’s stress, relationships, or personal growth, our therapists help you navigate what matters.

378

offer therapy

Psychiatry

Medication can be a key part of care. Our psychiatric providers offer expert guidance on what’s right for you.

31

offer medication management

Hundreds of thousands of patients have found affordable, in-network mental health care with Rula

Insurance

After you select a provider, we’ll send you a personalized cost estimate before your first session—so you’ll know what to expect.

$15 / session

typical cost patients pay through Rula

Nationwide coverage:

After you select a provider, we’ll send you a personalized cost estimate before your first session—so you’ll know what to expect.

100+ insurance plans accepted

140M total lives covered

Millions of sessions completed

Network

We hold providers to high clinical standards so you can trust the care you receive.

15,000+

licensed providers

Match

The right provider makes all the difference. We help you find someone who truly fits your needs—the first time.

98%

of searches result in an exact match

Progress

Care should make a difference. Our approach helps you track progress you can feel.

93%

of patients report feeling better after treatment through Rula

Additional therapy specialties and modalities

Sex Therapy Trauma and PTSD Anxiety EMDR Dialectical (DBT)

Psychiatry Couples Family Children therapy Preteen therapy Teen therapy

Male therapists Female therapists Spanish-speaking therapists Black or African American therapists Asian therapists Hispanic or Latinx therapists

Find a therapist near you

Virginia Beach Chesapeake Norfolk Richmond Newport News Alexandria Hampton Suffolk Roanoke Portsmouth Lynchburg Harrisonburg Leesburg Blacksburg Charlottesville Manassas Danville Petersburg

Understanding online dialectical behavior therapy

What is dialectical behavior therapy, and how does it work?

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a comprehensive and evidence-based therapy approach that aims to help people manage intense emotions and build better relationships. It combines standard cognitive therapy techniques with skills like mindfulness, which focuses on awareness of the present moment. DBT can be effective for issues like borderline personality disorder and eating disorders, concentrating on improving emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills.

DBT may not be the best treatment for your needs. Understanding the process and discussing this treatment method with a mental health professional is important.

Common issues addressed by dialectical behavior therapy

DBT can be used in treating mental health conditions associated with emotional instability. It can support people who deal with borderline personality disorder and extreme emotional reactions. DBT offers strategies for handling these challenges, which can lead to a more stable and fulfilling life.

Potential benefits of online dialectical behavior therapy

Online DBT sessions offer the flexibility to connect with specialized therapists on the Rula platform throughout your state, even if they’re not in your local area. This can be beneficial for people who face challenges attending in-person sessions. Research has shown that online therapy can have the effectiveness of in-person DBT while providing an accessible and comfortable option for treatment.

What to expect during an online dialectical behavior therapy session

During an online DBT session, therapists generally guide people through skill-building exercises in areas like mindfulness, handling stress, regulating emotions, and improving relationships. These sessions often include discussions on applying these skills to daily life, focusing on improving emotional stability and personal connections.

Choosing the right dialectical behavior therapist

After you've booked your first session, Rula verifies your insurance coverage and follows up with a cost estimate, including any required copayments.

FAQs about online dialectical behavior therapy

How effective is online DBT compared to in-person sessions?

Online DBT can be effective for many people. Many therapists on the Rula platform have experience adapting DBT techniques for online formats. While some may prefer in-person interactions, others find online therapy more convenient and less intimidating, which can help make sessions more effective.

Is dialectical behavior therapy right for me?

DBT can be suitable for people dealing with issues around emotional regulation, relationship conflicts, or self-harming behaviors. It can benefit people seeking a more structured therapy approach focusing on building practical skills. A consultation with a DBT therapist can help you decide if this therapy aligns with your needs and goals.

How should I prepare for online DBT sessions?

Reflect on your thoughts and feelings leading up to the appointment. Think about what you hope to get from each session and your longer-term goals. Let your close friends or family know you're starting DBT, as you might need their understanding and support.

DBT often brings up intense feelings and challenges old behaviors that may be difficult. Remember, the process of change has ups and downs. Working with your therapist can guide you through this process, offering support and strategies to help you apply DBT skills effectively in your everyday life. Feel confident about sharing your thoughts and feelings openly in this safe space.

How long does DBT therapy typically last?

The length of DBT therapy depends on the individual's needs and the specific issues being addressed. Some people may experience significant improvement within a few sessions, while others might engage in DBT therapy over several months. Your therapist can tailor treatment to your unique healing journey.

Are there any requirements for participating in online DBT?

Online DBT requires a private space for therapy, a reliable internet connection, and a device capable of video conferencing. Active participation and a willingness to apply DBT skills outside of sessions are critical for the therapy's success.

Quality care comes first at Rula

Quality care comes first at Rula

Continue exploring providers

A closer look at Rula’s mental health providers in Virginia

Specialty

75

Gender

6

Race & Ethnicity

10

Therapy

378

Psychiatry

31

Hundreds of thousands of patients have found affordable, in-network mental health care with Rula

Insurance

$15 / session

Network

15,000+

Match

98%

Progress

93%

Additional therapy specialties and modalities

Find a therapist near you

We’re here when you need us

We’re here when you need us

Here to help