Kathleen A. Otero, M.A.Ed, LPC/LCPC
Maryland License #LC9878 | Virginia License #0701011336.
Many of my clients come to me feeling stuck in patterns that leave them unfulfilled in their relationships. They struggle with people-pleasing, constant conflict, feeling unappreciated, or never quite getting their needs met. Alongside this, they often experience anxiety, depression, or both—sometimes accompanied by a deep sense of shame or feeling “not good enough.”
Through our work together, we uncover how past experiences have shaped these emotions, beliefs, and behaviors. In a supportive, nonjudgmental space, we gently untangle the past from the present, helping you build healthier relationships—with others and with yourself.
I spent the first several years of my counseling career providing in-home therapy to children, adolescents and their families, which has given me a unique perspective on understanding the suffering that families go through when one or more members are struggling with mental illness. I also have experience working with adults in outpatient and residential settings, and serving members of our military through the many challenges that military life presents. I have training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), attachment, parenting and perinatal mental health, Functional Family Therapy (FFT), and more. I primarily use a combination of mindfulness-based, cognitive-behavioral, trauma-informed and non-directive approaches. Reach out for a free consultation to see if we should work together.
Lisa Whitten, Resident in Counseling
Virginia License #0704018155.
I specialize in helping survivors of childhood sexual abuse and intimate partner violence reclaim their sense of safety, self-worth, and empowerment. I understand how early and ongoing trauma can deeply affect self-esteem, relationships, and emotional well-being. I'm especially passionate about helping those who feel stuck in cycles of shame, anxiety, or self-doubt find clarity and relief. With over a decade of experience, I've supported clients with many different backgrounds and experiences to find healing.
My style is warm, active, and directive—grounded in CBT, trauma-informed care, and attachment theory, I focus on helping clients challenge unhelpful patterns, build self-compassion, and create lasting change, Together, we'll uncover patterns, build self-compassion, and move toward healing at your own pace. Therapy is a collaborative journey, and I tailor my approach to your unique needs and goals.
Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy refinishing furniture, reading, exploring new places, yard sales and being with family. I'm passionate about helping people navigate life's challenges and move toward greater emotional well-being and self-understanding. If you're considering therapy, I invite you to reach out for a free consultation to see if we might be a good fit to work together.
Shaniqua Williams, Resident in Counseling
Virginia License #0704019441.
My passion is helping adolescents, young adults, and families navigate life's challenges while recognizing the strengths they already possess. Many of my clients come to counseling feeling overwhelmed by academic pressure, relationship difficulties, grief, self-esteem concerns, or major life transitions. Together, we create a space where they can feel heard, understood, and supported as they work toward the changes they want to see in their lives.
I believe therapy is most effective when it feels like a genuine partnership. My goal is not to tell clients what to do, but to help them better understand themselves, build on their strengths, and develop practical tools for navigating life's challenges. My approach is person-centered and strengths-based, drawing from Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
For more than 12 years, I've supported children, adolescents, and families in public schools, alternative education settings, and intensive in-home counseling programs. These experiences have given me a deep appreciation for the challenges people face every day and the resilience they often don't realize they have. I have also worked closely with parents to strengthen communication, build effective strategies, and support healthy family relationships.
It is a privilege to walk alongside clients as they build confidence, overcome obstacles, and discover their capacity for growth and change. If you're considering therapy, I invite you to reach out for a free consultation to explore whether we're a good fit.