Meet the Heart & Mind Team
working to
Empower Connections
To Self
To Others
Between the Brain and the Body
Use this space to introduce yourself and share your professional history"I believe everyone has the ability to find healing and you are the expert on you!"
I have earned licensure in another state and am now working toward licensure in the state of Virginia. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, incarceration, dissociation, psychosis, sexual behavior issues, trauma and abuse, PTSD depression, coping skills, career challenges, OCD, and eating issues. I have a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+ clients with specialized training for supporting transgender clients.
My therapy style is person centered. My role is to support you and provide resources as you find your way to healing. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, as well as narrative and solution focused therapy. I will tailor our work together to meet your specific needs based on my training in Polyvagal Theory, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Ego States, IFS, Attachment Based, Strength Based, Trauma and Abandonment, EMDR, and Gottman's Couples Therapy.
It takes courage to reach out and ask for support towards a happier and more fulfilling life. That courage will serve you well.
I look forward to working with you!
OUR CLINICAL TEAM
“Ready to embark on a journey of emotional well-being and thriving relationships? I'm here to help you every step of the way!” I believe that everyone has the capacity to heal, and I am honored to be part of their journey. My work is driven by a desire to help people overcome obstacles, develop healthy communication skills, and build relationships that are grounded in mutual respect, compassion, and understanding. As a Licensed Resident Counselor, I have a passion for helping people navigate complex emotions and relationships. My work focuses on empowering individuals and couples to build healthy relationships and navigate challenges with compassion. I believe in creating a safe and empathetic space for all clients, where humor and a conversational approach foster openness and healing. I hold a M.Ed. in Counselor Education with a focus in Couples and Family therapy and I am particularly interested in working with couples, families, and teens. I believe that everyone deserves to live a happy and fulfilling life, and I am committed to helping my clients reach their full potential. I am working under the Supervision of Melissa Horowitz, LPC Ages Seen: 6 and up Groups/Issues of Focus: Couples, Families, Adoption and Grief Tools Used: Family Systems, Trauma Informed, Polyvagal Informed
Hallie Gordon
Resident in Counseling, MEd
Feeling overwhelmed or stuck? My therapeutic goal is to collaborate with you, helping you make sense of life experiences and fortify your inner resilience. I understand the importance of feeling seen, heard, and valued, and I'm here to offer support and resources as we work together to address underlying issues, fostering healing, growth, wellness, and connection. With a background encompassing 15 years of mental health experience, including roles as an elementary school counselor and in behavioral and mental health crisis support services, substance use recovery, and grief and loss, I bring a wealth of expertise to support families. My holistic and creative approaches, tailored to fit each client's needs and personality, have proven effective in addressing concerns related to trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, life adjustments, learning difficulties, ADHD, and autism. As a national board-certified counselor (NCC) and a licensed resident in counseling under the supervision of Amy Reamer, LMFT, RPT-S, I bring a diverse skill set, including training in trauma and resilience, systems and parts work, play therapy, sand tray, trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy, emotionally focused therapy, and brain-based therapeutic techniques including the Safe and Sound Protocol. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to work together, supporting your family's journey toward healing and connection. Ages Seen: 3 and up Groups/Issues of Focus: Families, Adoption, School Issues, ADHD/Autism Tools Used: Play Therapy, Safe and Sound Protocol, Parts Work, TF-CBT, Sand Tray
Hello, I'm Peg, and I work with teens, adults and couples struggling with anxiety and depression, often due to past traumas. With a client-centered approach, I prioritize building strong connections to understand and address your unique needs. Drawing from extensive experience working with individuals impacted by trauma, including complex trauma, I emphasize the transformative message that one's past does not have to define their journey. My therapeutic approach is grounded in compassion and empathy, providing a supportive space for healing and growth. Utilizing a diverse set of tools, I incorporate breathing exercises, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques, along with elements of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) activities. Whether addressing relationship challenges in couples, parenting concerns or supporting teenagers with anxiety, I work collaboratively with clients to develop practical strategies and foster resilience. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am committed to empowering individuals and families, offering guidance and support to navigate the complexities of life and relationships, including the one with ourselves. Together, we embark on a journey of understanding, healing, and positive transformation. Ages Seen: 13 and up Groups/Issues of Focus: Couples, Teens, Parents, PTSD, Anxiety, Adoption Tools Used: DBT, Mindfulness
Peg Ruggiero
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Brandon Lowe
Resident in Counseling
I employ a collaborative approach in the pursuit of wellness, healing, and self-discovery with clients. My approach centers awareness, intentionality, and agency, placing the client in the driver's seat of the process of becoming.
I employ a holistic approach that emphasizes the importance of mind, body, and spirit in the therapeutic process. My therapeutic style and process is informed by Polyvagal Theory, Attachment theory, Systems theories, and others. I have particular interest in working with adults experiencing and grappling with grief and trauma, as well as other significant life events such as changes in family dynamics or career. I also enjoy working with couples.
I am working under the supervision of Melissa Horowitz, LPC
Meagan Valenti
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Clinical Supervisor
My goal as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Supervisor is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Therapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness.
I welcome all lifestyles as an LGBTQ+ affirming and culturally aware therapist. I treat clients who range widely in age and presenting issues. Such issues include: depression, anxiety, adoption/foster care, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, and grief. My therapy style is empathetic, compassionate, and being respectful of your choices.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and over half a decade of experience, I have been able to support many clients throughout the years as they give themselves permission to heal, take control of their lives, and live more passionate and fulfilling lives.
If you're interested in seeing yourself in a new way, breaking out of negative life scripts, re-framing your fears and obstacles, or re-deciding what you believe about yourself and others, I am ready to partner with and help you on your journey.
Summer Jones
Supervisee in Social Work
“There is nothing wrong with you! Therapy is a practice in being more curious, kind, and honest with ourselves and with support.”
As a therapist, I lead with humility and deep curiosity about who you are, who you’ve been, and who you are becoming. It is an honor to be trusted by clients, and I take the responsibility very seriously. My goal is always to create enough safety in the therapy room that you feel comfortable showing up exactly as you are. My style is direct and actively engaged, yet gentle.
I graduated from VCU with my master’s in social work in May of 2022 and have a background in childcare, the restaurant industry, and the birth world as a doula. I am passionate about relationships at every age and stage and enjoy supporting people to feel more aligned and at peace in their own skin.
My approach is solutions-focused, relational, and systemic. I use an attachment and brain-based lens to explore why your experience makes sense and what possibilities exist for growth and change. I don’t believe that therapy has to be hard work; in this relationship, we can also expand our capacity for confidence and joy. I look forward to meeting you!
I am working towards my license in clinical social work under the supervision of Meagan Valenti, LCSW.
Barry Vassar
Practice Manager
Resident in Counseling, MA
“Everyone is capable of being comfortable with who they are and we all have the potential to become who we want to be”
We all face challenges in relationships, parenting, work, mental health and other areas of life. Unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders are common among most people and nothing to be ashamed of. Maybe you are just ready to grow emotionally or take your life in a new direction. I believe that together we can find the approach that is right for you or your family (family member), and that will produce the results you are looking for.
Prior to joining Heart & Mind, I served in the mental health field as an Intensive in Home Counselor, Crisis Support Counselor, Clinical Supervisor and Program Director.
Having worked with children, adolescents, adults and senior adults, I have accumulated experience in addiction & group counseling, trauma informed care, marital/relationship skill building and faith-based counseling.
Generally I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy & Talk Therapy. I am also familiar with EFT (Emotional Freedom Therapy) & currently working towards certification in Neuro Linguistic Programming (timeline therapy & hypnosis) to provide alternative forms of emotional & psychological healing. Utilizing an eclectic approach that is customized to the uniqueness of the individual, couple, family or circumstances, I have found conventional and alternative approaches to addressing most commonly faced issues. I am working under the supervision of Melissa Horowitz, LPC.
Jaeron-Rae Dukes (R Jay)
Licensed Professional Counselor
"I believe everyone has the ability to find healing and you are the expert on you!"
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, incarceration, dissociation, psychosis, sexual behavior issues, trauma and abuse, PTSD depression, coping skills, career challenges, OCD, and eating issues. I have a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+ clients with specialized training for supporting transgender clients.
My therapy style is person centered. My role is to support you and provide resources as you find your way to healing. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, as well as narrative and solution focused therapy. I will tailor our work together to meet your specific needs based on my training in Polyvagal Theory, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Ego States, IFS, Attachment Based, Strength Based, Trauma and Abandonment, EMDR, and Gottman's Couples Therapy.
It takes courage to reach out and ask for support towards a happier and more fulfilling life. That courage will serve you well. I look forward to working with you!
Jonah Kane-West
Resident in Counseling
“Are you feeling trapped in limiting beliefs about yourself? Do you have difficulty maintaining rich, meaningful relationships?”
Jonah is dedicated to helping individuals, couples and families grow towards more embodied, connected and satisfying ways of being in the world.
He has completed training in both Internal Family Systems (IFS Level 1) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT Externship).
“I believe in the transformative potential of working directly with emotions to reintegrate disconnected parts of ourselves and bring to my work over 20 years of experience in elite athletics, improvisational music, meditation, and mindfulness practices.”
Jonah is deeply committed to creating a supportive and open space where all parts of you are welcome.
Jonah is in his 2nd year of residency working under the supervision of Melissa Horowitz, LPC, and Gavin Connor, LPC
Camille Werner
Resident in Counseling, MA
I believe therapy is a collaborative process. Having someone walk with you along the journey of self-discovery makes the process easier. I feel honored to work with anyone who takes the courageous step to get to the heart of their struggles, their pain, or their desire to grow as a person.
I take a holistic approach to the therapy process and believe the mind/body connection is vital to a sense of wellbeing and wholeness. I enjoy using different modalities with different clients to help each unique person find their voice in a way that is comfortable for them.
I have experience working with clients of all ages and with various issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma. Therapy is hard work, but the outcome can bring about the positive changes you want in your life.
I am a Resident in Counseling working towards licensure under the supervision of Danielle Snyder, LPC.
Carly McClinton
Licensed Professional Counselor
“Looking for a better understanding of yourself or your relationship? Having trouble with managing your own self worth?”
The process of healing takes time and can sometimes be hard when going through it alone. I collaborate with individuals and walk alongside them during the journey. Helping others recognize the strengths that reside within themselves is what I enjoy.
I work collaboratively with young adults who value insight, connection and are open and honest about their needs and concerns. I utilize CBT, psychodynamic modalities and play therapy techniques with my clients.
If you are ready to begin your journey toward self healing, I am ready to walk with you.
Becky Lehman
Licensed Professional Counselor
“Has your life story taken a twist lately? Has the unexpected left you feeling lost or overwhelmed?”
Life is a journey full of changes and transitions which offer us constant opportunities to learn about ourselves, better respond to our circumstances, become more truly who we are, relate to others in healthy ways, and experience greater well-being.
I have many years of professional experience as a recreation therapist and enjoy working with healthcare professionals, as well as individuals with disabilities and their families. Adjustment to disability, caregiver concerns, and navigating the impacts of disability and illness on family members are areas of particular interest. I also enjoy working with clients in the areas of stress management, anxiety, grief and loss, transition and adjustment concerns, and self-esteem issues.
I offer a calm and steady presence and will come alongside you as you process your life story and experiences. I will partner with you to identify your strengths as you move towards a more hopeful, fulfilling, and meaningful future. I use a holistic approach to counseling with attention given to mind, body, and spirit. I also have training in Christian counseling and can incorporate your faith into our work together if you would like.
Amy Reamer
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Registered Play Therapy - Supervisor
Executive Director
Amy is passionate about helping others heal their hearts from past hurts - through the use of research and evidence based practices infused with the latest neuroscience research. She has personal and professional experience with adoption, developmental trauma and other developmental disabilities. She is a self-proclaimed "brain geek" and continuously finds fun ways to incorporate the latest neuroscience research into evidence-based practices specializing in the effects of early trauma or neglect on the brain and the best ways to help children and teenagers heal. She is the author of "Toby the Tiger Tamer" and the developer of the Tame Your Tiger Brain Training Program. Amy is the 2021 Play Therapist of the Year for the state of Virginia.
Amy is currently supervising the Heart & Mind team, providing workshops, adoptive parent coaching, and supervision for therapists for licensure as a LPC or LMFT in VA, play therapist and consultations. Amy does carry a small caseload of clients focusing on the use of the Safe and Sound Protocol, Sand Tray and Individual and Family Play Therapy.
If you are interested in employment at Heart and Mind fill out our clinical application at the top of the page, if you are interested in discussing training or supervision needs you can schedule a video call with Amy by clicking here.
April Morefield
Social Work Intern
I have a passion for working with children and families who have been victimized. Victims need to learn skills for coping with trauma. I started a child advocacy center in 2019 and I have a desire to eventually offer specialized counseling services to children and families who are in need"
April can see clients for short term counseling $25.00 per session self pay only, no insurance.
Licensed Professional Counselor
Clinical Supervisor
Tame Your Tiger Director
Missy Horowitz
"Are you feeling stuck in frustrating patterns and difficult feelings?"
There is hope for change and healing. I partner with my clients to help them take an active role in their lives and develop creative solutions to their challenges. I’m trained in CBT, EMDR, and Parts Work and use mindfulness, movement, play, and expressive therapies to help clients achieve their goals. I am also Polyvagal Theory-informed and enjoy teaching clients about their brains and nervous systems. I have training in Christian counseling and can incorporate your faith in our work if you choose to do so.
I also oversee our Tame Your Tiger Program, using biofeedback, Safe and Sound Protocol, iLs Focus System and Interactive Metronome to make more connections in the brain and body and build more resilient nervous systems. Getting wired for connection instead of protection is what our mission is at Tame Your Tiger!
OUR ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM
Pat Duzey
Office Manager
Pat keeps our administrative systems running. She handles billing processes, invoices and handles other administrative tasks. Pat also shares her love and passion for art with our staff helping every one take good care of their creative selves.
If you have billing questions Pat can help you.
Geli Workman
Intake Coordinator
Geli is our intake coordinator and probably the first person you will be in contact with! Geli oversees and manages the intake processes for our new clients. Geli will be the person assisting you with scheduling your first session with your therapist. If you have any questions about intake or scheduling Geli can help you. Read what to expect in your intake call here.
Bonnie Elzey is our office assistant. She assists with many different office and administrative duties to help keep us running smoothly in many areas which helps our clinical staff focus on therapy. You may talk with her about billing or insurance issues or see her around the office updating paperwork, keeping us stocked on snacks and supplies and our spaces neat and clean.
Bonnie Elzey
Office Assistant