Our Team

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MA, LPC-S, 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 adult who is now 22, 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, and hiking outdoors. She has hiked the Grand Canyon twice! 

 MA, LPC-S, CCMHC, NCC, EMDR Trained

Sean specializes in treating anxiety, trauma, stress, and low self-esteem through the application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and a person-centered therapeutic approach. He loves working with children, adolescents, young adults, veterans, and military family members.   

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 Professional Counselor in Virginia and is certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC) and as a National Certified Counselor (NCC). In addition to completing EMDR Basic Training, Sean has completed Prolonged Exposure training for PTSD.

 MS, Resident in Counseling

Phoebe brings a warm, supportive, and forward-thinking approach to our team, developed through her work with neurodivergent adolescents and teenagers. This experience has given her a deep understanding of the unique challenges young people face and the importance of providing a safe, respectful space where they can learn and grow. 

Phoebe has a master of science degree in Counseling from Chaminade University, Honolulu, HI, a bachelor’s in psychology from Hawaii Pacific University, and an associate degree in practical nursing from the Community College of the Air Force.

Phoebe's approaches counseling through a systemic perspective, recognizing the powerful influence of family and social environments on overall well-being.

Born and raised in Hawai‘i, Phoebe also brings the values of community and connection into her work. Before becoming a therapist, she served six years in the Air Force, an experience that continues to shape her dedication and compassion. 

She specializes in supporting adolescents and teens through challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem struggles, or life transitions. Drawing on evidence-based practices like cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques, she works to help her clients discover their unique strengths and cultivate resilience. Her goal is for every client to feel understood, valued, and empowered to be their most authentic selves, and she invites adolescents and teens to take the next step in their journey with her toward growth and healing.

Phoebe has daytime and evening appointment availability for in-person or virtual sessions.

Master's Level Mental Health Counseling Intern under the Supervision of Melanie Shoemaker-Gleason

Symantha is a graduate-level mental health counseling intern completing her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) at Marymount University. 

Symantha has a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and she is completing her CMHC degree. 

Symantha is passionate about creating a safe and supportive space where people feel heard and understood. Her goal is to walk alongside you as you navigate challenges, discover your strengths, and work toward healing and growth. Symantha believes everyone’s story matters and looks forward to learning more about yours. 

Symantha has daytime and evening appointment availability for in-person or virtual sessions.

Master's Level Mental Health Counseling Intern under the Supervision of Melanie Shoemaker-Gleason

Rebekah is a graduate-level mental health counseling intern pursuing her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University, with the intention of becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). She holds a B.A. in Counseling from Manna University. 

Rebekah uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques while applying an interpersonal, strengths-based approach to help clients explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. She believes that with the proper support, each person can uncover the tools they need for healing and growth through resilience.

Drawing from a personal connection to the military community, she offers a unique understanding of the challenges service members and their families face. She sees every challenge as an opportunity for transformation, and Rebekah brings that same mindset to life outside the counseling room. She also enjoys cooking for family and friends, hiking scenic trails, playing guitar, and traveling to new or old places. She is always ready to try something new and loves hearing people’s stories. 

Rebekah has daytime and evening appointment availability for in-person or virtual sessions.

Master's Level Mental Health Counseling Intern under the Supervision of Melanie Shoemaker-Gleason

Sabrena Jay-Songowa, MS, is a mental health counseling intern currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University under the supervision of Melanie Shoemaker-Gleason.

Sabrena also holds a Master’s degree in Marketing and is a Certified Life Purpose Coach. She brings these skills into the counseling process to help clients gain clarity, identify obstacles, and develop practical strategies for navigating life’s challenges.

Her therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. 

Sabrena works collaboratively with clients, offering a supportive and non-judgmental space where they can openly explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences.

She is passionate about helping individuals create meaningful, lasting change in their lives.

Sabrena has daytime and evening appointment availability for in-person or virtual sessions.

Resident therapy dog in training

Koda is a 2+ year-old Yorkie-poo who is working on his listening and people skills. Koda has no social anxiety, and he loves giving puppy kisses, receiving lots of pets, and playing fetch with anyone willing.

He has completed three weeks of intensive training and is working on maintaining his learned commands. 

Koda loves to run, jump, play fetch, chew on dog toys, and he is known to regularly sleep on the job (Koda has mastered taking self-care naps at work).

Resident therapy cat in training

Raymond is a very gentle 7+ year-old orange tabby. He is a rescue cat and trauma survivor who is working on overcoming his social anxiety. Raymond loves lots of attention and has a powerful purr. When he isn't napping or eating, Raymond is working on overcoming his past trauma and fear of new people. Raymond was adopted from the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, Lorton Campus, which is just around the corner from our office at the Lorton Workhouse.  Adopt a Cat | Animal Shelter