Our Team
Melanie Shoemaker-Gleason
Melanie Shoemaker-Gleason
Melanie Shoemaker-Gleason
MA, Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, Play Therapy Supervisee, EMDR Trained
Melanie has an eclectic approach to counseling, using cognitive behavioral therapy and a person-centered approach that recognizes and respects the uniqueness of each individual she works with. She is always searching for more resources for bibliotherapy and creative therapeutic approaches! Melanie loves working with children and enjoys helping them achieve their full potential.
Melanie completed her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in D.C. But she has worn many hats in her career already! Melanie has a BS in Elementary Education from Northern Arizona University, and she has worked with children and families for over 30 years as an educator and caregiver. Melanie is a former military child and is married to a military spouse, which has allowed her to travel the world and be versed in the trials and tribulations of military children and families. Melanie is also the mother of a special needs child who is now 20, so she has a wealth of experience navigating the special education and health care mazes. Melanie is currently submitting her requirements to become a Registered Play Therapist!
Melanie enjoys her fabulous family, gardening, backyard farming, and hiking outdoors. She has hiked the Grand Canyon twice!
Sean Gleason
Melanie Shoemaker-Gleason
Melanie Shoemaker-Gleason
MA, NCC, Resident in Counseling, General EMDR Practitioner-in-Training
Sean specializes in treating anxiety, trauma, stress, and low self-esteem through the application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and a person-centered therapeutic approach. He loves working with adolescents, young adults, veterans, and military family members.
Sean is a master’s level clinician currently working as a Resident in Counseling to become a Licensed Professional Counselor. Sean is also a General Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Practitioner in Training and is working towards becoming an EMDR Certified Therapist.
Sean has a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Northern Arizona University and a master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Liberty University. Sean is a Licensed Resident in Counseling in Virginia and is certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as a National Certified Counselor (NCC). In addition to completing EMDR Basic Training, Sean has completed Level 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and incorporates Gottman methodology into his therapeutic approach.
When not working, which is seldom, Sean enjoys trail running, hiking, auto maintenance, home repair projects, and occasionally listening to 90s Grunge music. He is the father of three young adults and is married to Melanie Shoemaker-Gleason.
Amber Dise
Melanie Shoemaker-Gleason
Amber Dise
DNP, PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Amber is a Doctorally Prepared, Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Amber has over 20 years of experience working in healthcare, she is a Registered Nurse and has worked for INOVA Mount Vernon Hospital, in community and school health settings, home healthcare, and as an adjunct faculty at George Mason University.
Amber has experience helping patients navigate the psychosocial aspects of medical conditions and illness management, especially when they overlap with psychiatric concerns.
Addressing mental health issues can be scary, especially for children and parents. Amber works with families to create a calming and trusting environment. Clients are encouraged to discuss their wants, needs, and fears, which in turn helps to destigmatize the process.
Amber offers a highly personalized approach tailored to each of her clients individual needs to help attain the personal growth they are striving for. She uses medications judiciously and works collaboratively with others involved in your health, including primary care, specialists, pediatricians, and therapists.
Amber is trained in Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, incorporating many of the skills acquired in daily practice, including active listening, reflection, and meeting clients “where they are at.” She conducts a thorough evaluation and uses targeted treatments that are evidence based, holistic, and aimed toward your overall wellness.
Amber provides a safe and therapeutic environment, welcoming all backgrounds.
Amber enjoys spending time with her family and her 2 dogs, traveling, dancing, and cooking.
Koda
Melanie Shoemaker-Gleason
Amber Dise
Resident Therapy dog in training
Koda is a 1-year-old Yorkie-poo who is working on his listening and people skills. He loves giving puppy kisses and receiving lots of pets from anyone willing.
He has completed his first two-week intense training and is working on maintaining his learned commands.
Koda loves to run, play fetch, chew on dog toys, and nap (many naps).