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PHILOSOPHY
Virtual Therapist

Accepting clients for virtual therapy in Virginia

MY
PRACTICE

PHILOSOPHY

Marcella Sims LLC

Marcella Sims

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Life transitions often bring significant changes, yet they can also leave us feeling unseen and unsupported. Whether you’re starting college, becoming a parent, navigating relationships, or figuring out how to be an adult, these moments can feel overwhelming and isolating. It’s common to feel like the world expects you to have it all figured out, even as you’re still finding your way. At Still Seen Counseling, I’m here to remind you that you don’t have to navigate these changes alone. Together, we’ll create a space where you are truly seen, heard, and supported as you navigate life’s challenges and embrace growth.

 

W​e’ll examine negative thought patterns, core beliefs, relationship dynamics, and past experiences that have shaped who you are today. We’ll work to identify which patterns in your life bring you closer to the life you want to live and the person you want to become. From there, we’ll create a plan to release anything that no longer aligns with that direction.

Regardless of your reason for starting therapy, my goal is to provide an individualized, holistic approach to help you discover the best version of yourself.

My style is laid-back, conversational, and approachable. I enjoy using creativity and humor to explore different approaches, finding what works best for you.

I take a client-centered approach, meaning you’re in the driver’s seat. I won’t tell you what to do, but I will offer observations, ask follow-up questions, and challenge automatic thought processes when needed.

I firmly believe in the healing power of therapy and understand the importance of finding the right match when searching for a therapist. I’d love to help you explore a different way of living—a happier, more authentic way. Reach out today to schedule a 15-minute consultation!

Seeing You Through Life’s Transitions

I help individual adult clients who are working through issues of/or related to:

Anxiety and depression 
Perinatal anxiety and depression

Navigating life in their 20's and 30's
 Trauma and abuse 
Family conflict 
Suicidal and homicidal ideations and self-harm 
Relationships
Low self-esteem and self-criticism 
Lack of purpose
Adjusting to life transitions (having a baby, breakups/divorce, new job)
Stress
Self-discovery

Self-love therapist

Cultivate Self-Compassion

Therapy for college students

Shift the Narrative

EMDR therapist

Rewire the Brain

Therapist Near me

Find Purpose

Anxiety Therapist

Connect With Others

Virginia Therapist

Get Past Your Past

Perinatal Mental Health

Anxiety

Depression

Quarter-Life Crisis

First-Time Therapy Goers

Common Myths About Therapy

Going to therapy is a sign of weakness.
This is a common thought for many starting out in therapy. There's nothing weak about going to therapy. In fact, anyone who has been to therapy knows how much hard work and strength goes into being vulnerable and open to working on yourself. 
You are going to tell me what I should or should not do. 
Nope, I am not here to tell you what I think you should do with your life. Instead, I will guide you through deciding what's best for you by asking you questions, reflecting back what you are saying (or might not be saying), and offering unconditional support and acceptance. 
Therapy is going to resolve my issues quickly. 
Boy, do I wish that was true. As much as we would love it to be, therapy is not a quick fix. It requires patience, exploration, and willingness to be uncomfortable as you transition into a more healthy, self-aware chapter of your life. This is not to say you won't see changes early on! For many, just being more aware of harmful behavioral and cognitive patterns can have a profound impact. 
Medication is going to be recommended. 
This is a big concern for a lot of people. Medication can be a very good thing for some, but I understand and respect that not everyone wants/needs to be on medication. If you don't want to be on meds, you don't have to be. There are many other holistic options out there that we can explore. Ultimately, you are the decider. My job is to listen to and honor what it is you want. Together, we will come up a plan that works best for you. 
I always need to know what to talk about each session. 
I get this a lot. There's this misconception that you need to be "prepared" for therapy each time by having topics lined up. If having a list of things you want to talk about is your style, bring the list! If it is not, then don't worry. I can always throw out some questions to get the ball rolling. Or we can check-in to see if there's anything we previously discussed that you would like to come back to.  Or we can use music, art, improv or silence to spark some topics. Trust me, there's no wrong way to do therapy. 

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