Clarity's Team

My mission is to offer evidenced-based treatment to individuals and families impacted by an eating disorder and co-occurring disorders and commit to the prevention, education, and treatment of those living in Northern Virginia. For too long services were limited in this area and I am very excited to have offices in Gainesville, Reston, Richmond, and virtually. I work primarily in Gainesville and virtually, and in every office, Clarity has nutritionists in house and family therapists, all of which are specialized in the treatment of eating disorders. I believe it is imperative to work together with my client, their family, and a multidisciplinary team of professionals when treating eating disorders and through that collaboration, I hope to make a difference within the field of mental health.

I am a certified eating disorder specialist and supervisor as well as hold certification in DBT.  have been working in the field of eating disorders since 2008 and I am committed to help client’s understand and fully overcome their eating disorder's so that they have peace within their mind, body, and spirit. I earned her Bachelors of Arts at Rutgers University and Masters of Science at Columbia University.  While at Columbia in 2009, I was formally trained and certified in DBT by Behavioral Tech. In 2017 I became a certified eating disorder specialist through the International Academy of Eating Disorder Professionals (iaedp), in 2018 I earned my certification to be a supervisor for providers working toward their certification and as of 2019 hold a co-chair position within iaedp's Alexandria chapter for certification.  I am excited to be a leader in the field and am committed to giving back.  I am licensed in VA/MA to practice and supervise in VA as well as provide supervision for providers working toward their CEDS. Lastly, I recently completed work with Stanford University and UCSF, under the supervision of Dr. Locke and Dr. LeGrange (developers of FBT). As of Fall 2021, I am a Certified Family Based Therapist (CFBT).  In 2023 myself and our Clarity team committed to receiving formal training with the developer of Radically Open Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (RO-DBT) and I am currently Level 1 certified and in the final stages of Level 2 certification.  I will be completing that training in Winter of 2024 and attend bi-weekly consultation/supervision groups for continued support as I master this new transdiagnositic treatment, which compliments the FBT and DBT training I have to best supports individuals and families.

I am energetic, passionate, and dedicated to empowering individuals and families who are impacted by eating disorders and mental illness. My primary methods are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, and Family Based Therapy.  I am HAES™ align and a trauma informed provider.  All in all, I am committed to the prevention, research, and evidence-based interventions for full recovery among individuals and families who are affected by eating disorders and co-occurring illnesses.

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*Alicia currently has limited availability, however she does supervise the staff at Clarity Counseling (so she will be working behind the scenes if you are a client of Clarity's) along with providers working toward CEDS throughout the US.

To schedule a session with Alicia, please click HERE to access her schedule. 

I have over ten years of experience helping individuals struggling with substance abuse, trauma and mental health diagnoses. I'm trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy for group & individual settings to help my clients achieve their goals. DBT teaches concrete, easy-to-use coping skills and I would love to help you begin using skills in your life. I strongly believe recovery is achievable for all and you can create a 'life worth living' through therapy. I also use CBT and trauma-informed care. In 2013, I received my Masters in Social Work at Rutgers University and am licensed in Virginia, Maryland, DC, North Carolina, & South Carolina.

I believe that therapy should be client-centered, non-judgmental and at your pace. I hope to inspire my clients to make change in their life, work towards their goals, process life events and build useful coping skills. Through DBT, I can help you be in control of your emotions, manage stress without problem behaviors and be present in your life.

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*Katie runs Clarity's DBT Skills Group's that are currently running.  Katie is 100%r Virtual.

To schedule a session with Katie, please click HERE to access her schedule.

My mission is to create a safe and empowering atmosphere where people can begin to heal from trauma. I use a research-driven, multi-disciplinary, integrative approach that honors self-efficacy and encourages each person to take the lead in their therapeutic journey with the support of myself and other treatment providers. I am passionate about using your inherent strengths to help you move to place of stability and balance focusing on the connection between the brain and the body. I strongly believe coping skills are adaptive and that our brains constantly attempt to move us to a place of stability, even if, at times, that is difficult to see. I specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma, mental health disorders, and substance use.  

I have over a decade of experience in the field of substance use, mental health, and trauma. I earned a Bachelor's of Health and Human Sciences and a Masters in Science and Social Work from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for 8 years in both VA and TN. As a senior clinician, I have specialty training in complex trauma and mental health through EMDRIA and the Institute for Creative Mindfulness in EMDR and am pursuing certification. Additionally, I am trained and certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy through the Strong Star Initiative at University of Texas, and the Trauma Recovery Empowerment Model. I am also an approved supervisor for those seeking to earn their LCSW in VA. In my practice, I utilize a variety of evidence-based modalities to meet the need of each individual person, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness Based Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Motivational Interviewing.  

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*Kaitlin is currently accepting new clients virtually and in the Gainesville location.

To schedule a session with Kaitlin, please click HERE to access her schedule. 

I believe that everyone comes into therapy with their own innate strength and wisdom, and in my sessions, I strive to help teens, children, families, and individuals with eating disorders tap into these qualities that are already present within. I incorporate empathy and a non-judgmental approach into my sessions to foster a safe, therapeutic relationship. It is through this relationship we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and, in time, we will examine whether they are helping you live your most fulfilling life. I am a strong advocate of self-compassion and emotional expression, and I strive to help you develop skills and strategies that will move you closer to your goals. Nothing brings me more joy than seeing my clients succeed, and I will be here to celebrate your progress every step of the way!  

I earned my undergraduate degree from UVA and went on to receive my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from William & Mary.  I have experience supporting individuals in a variety of settings including inpatient hospitalization, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient levels of care. I am HAES-aligned and a trauma-informed provider.  I incorporate techniques from evidenced-based therapies including acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and exposure response prevention. I am currently being supervised to become a certified eating disorder specialist to continue to grow in my experience in the treatment of eating disorders and in Level 1 training for radically open dialectical behavioral therapy.

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*Madison is currently accepting new clients in the Reston location as well as over our virtual platform.

To schedule a session with Madison, please click HERE to access her schedule. 

In my practice, I work with clients to explore past experiences and how they might be influencing current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors — nurturing insight and awareness to elicit growth and desired change. I view therapy as a collaborative process that can assist in identifying and working through challenges so that life can be lived with greater balance and self-compassion. I strive to create a safe space for individuals to freely express their authentic selves, while working together to set and progress toward therapeutic goals.

I am experienced in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, life transitions, and women’s issues. I specialize in treating individuals recovering from eating disorders, and individuals who feel dissatisfaction with their bodies and relationships with food. As an eating disorder specialist, I am passionate about the link between mind and body — recognizing the importance of simultaneous healing. I am grounded in evidence-based practice, utilizing an integrated and trauma-informed approach influenced by cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, exposure response and prevention therapy, mindfulness practice, and family systems therapy; while employing strengths-based and person-centered frameworks. I hold the belief that connection serves as a powerful aid to the recovery process and encourage the involvement of a support system, as well as other treatment professionals.

I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Mary Washington, and my Master of Social Work in Clinical Practice from Virginia Commonwealth University. I have been working in the field of mental health since 2014 in various roles and settings, including inpatient, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient levels-of-care. I am currently under the supervision of Alicia Ayvas, MSSW, LCSW, CEDS, as I work toward my CEDS.

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*Rachael currently is accepting new clients in the Richmond location as well as over our virtual platform.

To schedule a session with Rachael, please click HERE to access her schedule. 

Many of my clients struggle with eating disorders AND struggle with identity based-trauma. When working with me, you’ll find I use culturally responsive and identity-affirming techniques to walk alongside you in your journey towards healing. Some common themes my clients struggle with include overcontrolled tendencies, body acceptance, perfectionism and balancing bicultural/biracial confidence.

I have worked with the eating disorder population since 2016 with the majority of my experience in residential treatment and outpatient services. My therapeutic inventions are pulled from DBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing and Radically Open DBT. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Mary Washington and my Masters of Art in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and under the supervision of Alicia Ayvas, LCSW, CEDS-S.

My values represent a commitment to delivering ethical, culturally attuned, and empowering mental health care, while actively challenging the colonial frameworks that have historically marginalized and pathologized communities of color in eating disorder treatment and recovery. With a focus on serving BIPOC communities, I believe that everyone deserves a compassionate, non-judgmental environment in healing. No matter your background or identity, if you’re ready to begin your healing journey, I am here to help you achieve your goals. You are not alone.

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* Gigi is not currently accepting new clients. Gigi works in our Reston and Gainesville location and in our virtual office. 

To schedule a session with Gigi, please click HERE to access her schedule. 

I believe in the importance of recognizing one's strengths to overcome obstacles in one's life.  Therapy is a partnership and we will go where you need to go together.  Throughout my career, I have worked in multiple settings including inpatient facilities, emergency departments, and community mental health centers; I have worked with a variety of disorders ranging from anxiety to severe mental illness, with all ages and genders.  I use a multifaceted approach to therapy, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, among other evidence-based approaches.  I am independently licensed in both MA and VA, and only available by Telehealth because of the COVID-19 pandemic.  

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 * Tess is currently accepting new clients. Tess will be working virtually on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights starting at 5:30pm, and will be offering Friday sessions at 2:30pm - 5:30pm. Tess is 100% virtual.

To schedule a session with Tess, please click HERE to access her schedule. 

 I approach the therapeutic process with curiosity, humor and non-judgmentally.  My goal is to build trust with clients while they explore their story and identify unmet needs.  I use evidence-based treatment modalities to help enhance client strengths and build new skills. I incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectal behavioral therapy, expressive activities and mindfulness techniques into session as appropriate.  I enjoy working with adolescents and families, young adults and women to address adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, identity and self-esteem.  I have worked in higher levels of care for four years, gaining practice managing crisis situations and finding effective solutions to reintegrate clients back their into daily routines.  I have a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University and am a Licensed Professional Counselor. 

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 * Holly is currently accepting new clients virtually.  

To schedule a session with Holly, please click HERE to access her schedule. 

My goal as a clinician is to help clients find healing in a meaningful way, allowing them to live a life they deserve. I value positivity and humor as tools we can use in our collaboration, placing great importance on harnessing my clients’ strengths as they face challenges. Recovery is not easy, but it is possible. I believe it is vital to take a holistic stance and consider the entirety of each client’s life experience. With that in mind, I strive to provide genuine and encouraging support for my clients along their journey as we forge a path toward achieving wellness and peace.

I specialize in supporting those who struggle with eating disorders by lending compassionate care throughout their recovery. I have experience in treating body-image concerns, depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, and trauma. My therapy style is a person-centered approach that combines warmth and energy, utilizing evidence-based treatments that implement elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing. 

I received my Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and Intervention Specialist with a minor in Psychology and went on to receive my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in Trauma Counseling and Crisis Intervention, both from the Franciscan University of Steubenville. I spent several years working within the public school system in that area, providing support for struggling students and working in mental health in community, hospital, and outpatient settings. I spent time working at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center’s Center for Eating Disorders at Western Psychiatric Hospital as a clinical therapist for the partial hospitalization program and intensive outpatient program as well as consulting as a liaison for UPMC Magee-Women’s Hospital where I conducted presurgical psychiatric evaluations. During this time, I was privileged to provide research-based quality care for patients where I established the belief that a strong support network, a holistic approach, and connectivity will truly drive the path to recovery.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and am nationally certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors. 

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 * Brigid is currently accepting new clients.  Brigid is working in the Richmond location on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Brigid is also offering virtual sessions.

To schedule a session with Brigid, please click HERE to schedule a session.

My goal as a clinician is to provide a safe and welcoming space where you are able to foster deeper healing and flourish in all areas of your life. Using an empathetic and compassionate person-centered approach, I will collaborate with you to develop new skills and increase self-awareness that leads to greater healing, self-understanding, and freedom. I find value in helping you face life’s challenges by using an integrated approach that addresses the human person as a whole- mind, body, and soul.

I specialize in treating individuals recovering from eating disorders and am passionate in assisting individuals heal relationships with both their bodies and food. As a former dancer and eating disorder specialist, I am passionate about the mind/body connection and desire to bring about healing between the two. Additionally, I am experienced in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, obsessive/compulsive disorders, life transitions and low self-esteem. My theoretical approach is informed from an integrative and person centered perspective utilizing evidence based therapies including; Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma informed CBT and Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS). 

I received my Bachelors of Art in Dance Education from University of North Texas and my Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Divine Mercy University. I spent several years working with adolescent and young adult women, providing support for struggling students when working as a missionary on college campuses. I also spent the past year working at a non-profit eating disorder clinic conducting individual, group, and family therapy. As a native Texan, I love hospitality and will provide you with a safe space that is warm and inviting. Although Texas is my home, I have lived in Virginia for the past 3 years and love all that it has to offer, especially the nature of the mountains. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) under the supervision of Alicia Ayvas, LCSW, CEDS-S and I work toward my CEDS.

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 * Mackenzie is currently accepting new clients.  Mackenzie is working in the Gainesville location on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, with after school availability and virtually on Tuesday and Friday. 

To schedule a session with Mackenzie, please click HERE to schedule a session.

My ultimate goal in my practice is to foster a sense of acceptance and understanding within each of my clients. I practice from a person-centered approach of non-judgmental compassion and warmth to explore how your past experiences impact your current thoughts and behaviors, and gently challenge each of my clients to explore how this can impact your relationships with yourself and others.  

I received both my Bachelors in Psychology and Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia. I have experience working with men, women, adolescents and children providing both early intervention services and mental health counseling in a variety of settings. I have provided home-based services while working with children on the autism spectrum, as well as worked in a residential setting providing mental health counseling to individuals diagnosed with substance use disorders. I have spent several years working in Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient levels of care while practicing at an eating disorder treatment center. I have experience in treating body-image concerns, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and substance use utilizing evidence-based components of cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy while treating eating disorders.  

I firmly believe in creating a safe space for my clients to work on their most authentic, whole and healthy self. I look forward to working with you in exploring how to fully live in the present moment, and work toward a life of fulfillment in recovery.

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 * Mickey is currently accepting new clients.  Mickey works in the Reston location on Monday and Tuesday, and virtually on Wednesday and Thursday, with after school availability. 

 To schedule a session with Mickey, please click HERE to schedule.

I am passionate and dedicated to my role as an Intake Coordinator and come with a strong background in client care and administrative support.  As the first point of contact at Clarity Counseling, I am committed to ensuring a seamless intake process, providing compassionate guidance to individuals and families seeking assistance, and fostering a positive client experience.

I have a Bachelor's in Health Sciences and a Masters in Physical Therapy.  I worked as a Pediatric Physical Therapist in two NOVA school systems for almost a decade before leaving the field to raise my five children.  I have lived overseas in Europe which has provided me with an appreciation of cultures and worldviews. I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, baking and traveling. 

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 * Allison is Clarity's first point of contact when calling to set up an intake or to learn more about Clarity Counseling.  She is here as a resource for you and acts as the bridge between the providers and services offered within all three of Clarity's locations.  

I believe in a catered approach to support clients in meeting their goals and coping with various life challenges.  I bring my professional experience from a variety of mental health settings, such as outpatient treatment centers, private practice and a therapeutic milieu.  I have also worked as a school counselor for over 10 years which has provided a thorough background for my work with children, teenagers and parents. I foster a compassionate, non-judgemental and nurturing environment so that I can see each client's personal story. I aim to help clients better understand themselves, and acquire the resilience and coping skills they need to face and address their struggles.  

I use treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Relational Therapy, among other evidence-based approaches.  I earned my Master's Degree in School and Community Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and I am independently licensed in both MA and VA.  I am currently taking new clients by Telehealth. 

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 * Jenn is currently accepting new clients starting April 1st.  Jen works 100% virtually for Clarity and has evening and after work/school availability on Monday - Friday. 

 To schedule a session with Jenn, please click HERE to schedule.

My mission as a therapist is to guide and empower individuals to live fully and authentically, in alignment with their values and strengths. I am a curious and passionate individual with a dedication to helping those affected by eating disorders and mental illness. I am committed to creating a supportive, client-centered and non-judgmental environment that fosters health, growth, and exploration. 

In our work together, I integrate various evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT), along with psychodynamic approaches. As an avid learner, I am determined to gain an understanding about each client and family's perspective and use this to help tailor therapy to their specific needs and strengths. I am committed to being a HAES-aligned and trauma informed provider. My practice is grounded in empathy, self-compassion, and a deep respect for each client’s unique journey. I believe in the power of self-reflection and curiosity as tools for transformation, and I am here to support you in building a healthier, fulfilling relationship with yourself and your body. 

I completed my Bachelors of Science in Psychology and went on to earn my Masters of Social Work at George Mason University. I have extensive experience involved with inpatient, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient levels of care. I have worked with individuals and families of all ages, helping them navigate the complex challenges of eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and the difficulties that come with life transitions. I am currently under the supervision of Alicia Ayvas, LCSW, CEDS, as I work towards my CEDS.

To schedule a consultation call or intake with Jackie, please contact 571-318-9141 and our intake coordinator will get you connected.

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 * Jackie is currently accepting new clients.  Jackie works in the Ashburn location on Monday and Thursday with after school availability. 

 To schedule a session with Jackie, please click HERE to schedule.

Ilana is a primary therapist here at Clarity Counseling. She also works at a local higher level of care treatment center when she is not in the Reston or Gainesville office.   She is a Supervisee in Social Work who graduated with her MSW from Virginia Commonwealth University. Ilana has been working in the eating disorder field since 2019. She has worked in different levels of care including residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient. She has also worked as a recovery coach. Ilana’s personality is gentle, but she knows when to be firm to help her clients lean into challenging their behaviors. She uses therapeutic approaches including CBT, DBT, and ACT. She also uses strength-based person-centered approaches. Ilana is very passionate about social justice and uses her knowledge of that, human behavior, and development to help explain client behavior. Ilana follows the Health At Every Size principles and believes in an all-foods-fit philosophy. In Ilana’s free time, she loves spending time with her cat, Ember, hiking, and painting.  Ilana is a resident and under the direct supervision of Alicia Ayvas, LCSW, CEDS-C and is expected to earn her LCSW in Fall of  2025.

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 * Ilana is currently accepting new clients.  Ilana works in the Reston location on Monday and Friday with after school availability and our Gainesville location on Saturdays.

 To schedule a session with Ilana, please click HERE to schedule.