Licensed Professional Counselors

People are unique individuals, and oftentimes our struggles seem unparalleled. As individualistic as we are, emotions are ubiquitous. There are times throughout our lives where each of us feels challenge, stuck, exhausted, or lost. In these times, it can be beneficial to seek counsel from someone who is outside our situations. This individual can help you find ways to make positive changes and give you the encouragement and level-headedness you need to power through the trying times.

My therapeutic approach is eclectic and collaborative, and I focus on allowing individuals to use their own strengths and weaknesses to develop a pathway for a healthy, balanced life. I have always been eager to help others, whether it be an individual, couples, or families; however, I have a true passion and calling for working with children. My specialties are play as therapy and Dialectical Behavior Informed Therapy and Neurotherapy.

I thoroughly enjoy aiding in the healing process and leading people to improve self-knowledge and well-being. It is my belief that the counseling process differs amongst every individual, and that each client needs to explore their struggles in their own way. While we cannot change situations that have occurred in our past, I can guide you, your child, and/or your family to a place where you have a better understanding of situations and a happier, healthier life moving forward.

Michelle Hobson, LPC

Michelle Hobson, LPC

License No: 0701007741

Sarah Tackett, LPC

Sarah Tackett, LPC

License No: 0704013427

I believe every individual has the capability to live the life they desire while tapping into their most authentic, ideal self. Since as far as I can remember, I have always had a desire and passion for helping others do just that. I believe that every individual possesses the strength and potential to work through life problems, and I tailor my approach to meet the needs of each client.

I graduated from Old Dominion University with a Master of Science in Education degree, specializing in Mental Health Counseling and am a Licensed Counselor in the Commonwealth of Virginia. With over ten years of experience, education and training in the mental health field, I have become aware there is a great need of professionals to instill hope, provide support, and create a safe space for sharing and healing; I am committed to help fill this need.

I provide unbiased, strength-based counseling while providing a safe space for personal growth, empowerment, and collaboration. I utilize an eclectic counseling style and cater my approach based on clients' individual needs. I incorporate Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy and Play Therapy into my approach accordingly. It is my life's purpose to help others discover their potential and learn skills and strategies to help them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

We all go through difficult times in our lives, and at times we need extra support and encouragement in overcoming those struggles. Having the strength to look outside ourselves for that help is the first step in the healing process. I believe each individual has the ability to overcome the things that are preventing us from living our best life at our highest level of mental and emotional functioning. Through collaboration, support, and creating a safe environment to explore the most pressing challenges, individuals can successfully heal from the emotional and psychological factors negatively impacting their life.

There is no one size fits all approach to therapy, which is why my theoretical orientation is a holistic and eclectic approach that integrates various elements of different therapies to meet the individual needs of each client. I have received specialized training in Perinatal Mental Health disorders, as well as being a certified trauma professional.

I believe that every individual has the ability and strength to work through their problems when provided the correct support and guidance. While I cannot solve your problems for you, I can give you the tools that allow you to confront, process, and overcome your struggles. It is my goal to help you live your most fulfilled life!

Rebecca Parthun, LPC

Rebecca Parthun, LPC

License No: 0701011285

Dr. Bianca Augustine, LPC

Dr. Bianca Augustine, LPC

License No: 0701011765

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the Commonwealth of Virginia and a certified clinical trauma professional (CCTP). I obtained my PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision at Old Dominion University. I recognize that each of us has a unique set of strengths, as well as unique challenges. Sometimes it is helpful to get an outsider's perspective and assistance to help us navigate life's challenges and to assist us in steering our life in the desired direction. That's where I come in!

I provide collaborative therapy, in which we use your values and desires to develop a plan toward a more balanced, pleasant life! My eclectic experiences and training allow me to assist children, adolescents, couples/partners, and families with a variety of concerns. I specialize in helping individuals, couples/partners, and families process through and cope with traumatic experiences. I am an affirming therapist with experience and training in working with individuals with affectional and gender-expansive identities (i.e., individuals identifying as LGBTQIAP2S+) and those with sexuality-related concerns through an affirming, supportive, and respectful framework. I also specialize in trauma counseling, allowing clients impacted by trauma to process, heal from, and develop a path forward following traumatic experiences. The unique needs of clients identifying within the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities. As a multiculturally sensitive and aware practitioner, I tailor therapy to best fit you, your culture, and your belief system!

Through the use of creative interventions, play as therapy, expressive arts, and talk-based therapy, I can help you, your child, or your family to take control of your life and wellness!


Residents in Counseling

* All Residents in Counseling are under the direct supervision of Michelle Hobson, LPC.

I hold a Master of Science in Midwifery from Philadelphia University, graduated from Regent University with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, have completed practicum and internship through four local practices, and hold certification from the National Board for Certified Counselors. I customarily use SFBT, REBT, attachment theory, and polyvagal theory lenses, but may incorporate elements of ACT, EFT, or DBT. No single approach works for every individual, so in addition to talk therapy, body movement and/or EMDR may also be utilized. I work with diversity and without judgment. Together, we will work on finding your voice, increasing what's working, decreasing what's not, and magnifying your peace. Rather than being held captive by your past or current situation, you can exert control over the turmoil. I want to hear what that looks like for you and join you on the journey to get there.

Karen Carroll

Karen Carroll
Resident in Counseling

License No: 0704015353

Kelly Morley

Kelly Morley
Resident in Counseling

License No: 0704014913

I am a person who recognized an urgent need for open hearts and open minds in the field of mental health and I aspire to have both! I have a Masters' Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University and I continue to pursue learning as much as I can to help people who are struggling. My primary goal is to assist people who may be unsure of what they are experiencing or are nervous about seeking help. I am committed to joining you on your mental health journey and promise my full effort to meet you where you are. I feel that my true calling is to help people to heal while becoming advocates for themselves, their families, and society as a whole.

I conduct individual counseling for people of all ages and can help with a variety of concerns including (but definitely not limited to) depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. My primary approach is person-centered therapy because I feel that there is no “cookie cutter method” to mental health and you deserve a treatment style that is as unique as you are. I utilize an integrative method using evidence-based techniques to meet each individual's needs.

I know from personal experience that seeking counseling can be both scary and quite difficult. I am here to help facilitate making things easier and more accessible for you or your loved one. Do not hesitate to reach out to me with any questions!

Making the decision to participate in counseling can be intimidating at first. My mission is to normalize counseling and detach the stigma associated with getting help. All sessions are individualized and collaborated to focus on the client's current needs.

My goal is to provide culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and evidence-based counseling to assist individuals in processing and working through life stressors. I assist adults to walk through their life journey and improve their overall mental and emotional well-being. We work to target a decrease in symptoms associated with personal and childhood sensitivities, work issues, and relationship difficulties.

I have my Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology from Old Dominion University. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a Certification in Trauma Studies from Regent University.

I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I utilize an integrative approach, utilizing several techniques stemming from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). Healing is difficult, but you don't have to do it alone.

Markisha Gravely

Markisha Gravely
Resident in Counseling

License No: 0704014836

Alexis Ivy

Alexis Ivy
Resident in Counseling

License No: 0704016272

I earned my Master of Science Degree in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University, where I honed my skills and developed a strong foundation in the field. I believe in the power of human connection, and my approach is rooted in humanistic and person-centered therapy. I recognize and celebrate the individual qualities and needs of each of my clients because I truly believe that no two journeys are the same.

I've had the privilege of working with clients of all ages and concerns, from anxiety and depression to trauma disorders, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Whether you're a child, adolescent, or adult, I'm here to support you through life's challenges. My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, and to help you discover the tools you need to thrive. I am also committed to cultural competency, uphold trauma-informed ethics, and prioritize diversity and inclusion, ensuring that everyone I work with feels heard and valued.

I'm excited to be a part of your journey toward personal growth and mental well-being. Let's navigate life's challenges together and celebrate your victories along the way.

Hello! My name is Megan and I recently completed my Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the College of William and Mary and am now a Resident in Counseling. I am passionate about helping people discover their own worth and value while also identifying and addressing underlying issues that may be causing them pain.

I serve clients of all ages, including children and teens. I often use behavioral and strengths-based approaches, but prioritize using what works best for the individual. I have experience working with mood and attention disorders, self-esteem, life transitions, and relationship issues. I enjoy being collaborative and creative with clients, while creating a safe space for them to share, grow, and heal. I would be honored to help you build a life that you love.

Megan Roche

Megan Roche
Resident in Counseling

License No: 0704016388

Michael Sheffield

Michael Sheffield
Resident in Counseling

License No: 0704014616

My name is Michael, and I recently completed my Masters in Human Development and Counseling. I am a now a Licensed Resident in Counseling, and I operate under the supervision of Michelle Hobson, LPC. My life and training lend themselves toward working with those experiencing depressed mood, anxiety, grief, disability, trauma, sleep disturbance, uncontrolled anger, and/or excessive stress. Five years ago, I sustained a spinal cord injury that completely shifted my priorities. It is my passion to talk about that which matters in life, while helping people find their truth, learn from it, and express it in action. I think my unique experience lends itself to helping people discover motivated action as well as finding peace and purpose through challenging life situations. Our work will be completed through a combination of ACT therapy, Schema therapy, and existential philosophy. Through these modalities, we will work through challenges and build coping skills, while developing and pursuing value-based goals. There are no quick fixes in mental health. If you are ready to put in the work to reorient your mind and life, please let us know.

I am always impressed by people taking the courageous first step toward understanding their own story and I feel honored to help people begin identifying areas in need of new insight and inspiration, in making changes, and in living a life that more closely reflects their values.

Some things you can expect in a session with me are being put at ease and walking away with concrete goals.

I follow a mixture of theoretical orientations, but am drawn to the tangible objectives of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as the focus on values found in Acceptance & Commitment Theory.

Jessica Hendrick

Jessica Hendrick
Resident in Counseling

License No: 0704014409

Courtney Nishnick

Courtney Nishnick
Resident in Counseling

License No: 0704014784

Congratulations for taking the first steps in your journey toward overcoming your challenges. I know that decision could not have been easy and was not made lightly. Sometimes life is tough, and we need an unbiased source to help us navigate it. I am very passionate about my work and love seeing people grow and evolve into their best selves. I believe you are the expert of your life, and I am here to offer adequate tools to help you accomplish your goals.

I am a Counseling Ph.D. candidate at Old Dominion University. I completed my master's level internship in a university setting working with students experiencing adjustment related concerns. I then worked at a medication assisted treatment center and a community agency conducting individual and group therapy for adults with co-occurring disorders. In all of my experiences, I have had the pleasure of working with diverse populations of clients in overcoming varying biopsychosocial factors hindering them from desired daily functioning. I hope we can work together to address the areas in your life that need extra care.

My name is Elizabeth Mitchell, I am currently an intern completing my practicum under the supervision of Michelle Hobson, LPC. I follow a mixture of theoretical orientations but am drawn to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.

I believe every individual, family, and couple has the capability to reach their personal goals and find the strength to work through life's problems. It is my goal to help others achieve their personal goals and work through the stressors that come with life.

Elizabeth Mitchell

Elizabeth Mitchell
Intern

Tori Davis-Gillis

Tori Davis-Gillis
Administrative Director

I am a 757 native who has always had a passion for the mental health field and helping others. I became a Neurofeedback Technican for Mind Over Matter Therapy in 2018. After taking a brief hiatus to attend to my family, I returned to take on the role of Administrative Director and still actively take clients for Neurofeedback under the supervision of our owner, Laura Michelle Hobson. I thoroughly enjoy speaking with each one of our clients and take pride in getting to know them and watching them progress through their healing journey with our clinicians. I have noticed that while each of our clients have very unique stories to share, they all have one thing in common: bravery. It is so brave to enroll in therapy services to become a better version of you - no matter what that looks like or means to you, and if no one has told you today - I am proud of you for taking the first step towards healing! Please don't hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns about our office or our services. My main goal is to make sure each one of our clients are more than content with the services they are receiving because your feelings matter, you matter, and you will always be important to me and my colleagues at Mind Over Matter Therapy.

I've always had a passion for helping others and have been intrigued by the mental health field for as long as I can remember. I enjoy getting to know each of our clients and seeing them grow during their time here. It takes a lot of strength to start your journey towards healing; I am proud of you for taking the first step! It is important to us that our clients are more than happy with the care they receive from our team, because you matter here. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have regarding our practice or our services!

Serena Smith

Serena Smith
Receptionist