Adults (In person & Online)
Trauma-Informed Counseling in Northern VA
This is your invitation to meaningful change. Like choreography, therapy is an intentional process — a thoughtful unfolding of patterns, movements, and relational dynamics that shape your emotional story. As in choreography, counseling employs an intentional organization of steps, pathways and formations to communicate emotion and narrative.
In our work together, we will identify and gently explore the attachment patterns, beliefs, and coping strategies that may be keeping you stuck. Many struggles with anxiety, depression, and relationship conflict are rooted in early attachment experiences. Therapy provides a safe, attuned space to understand these patterns and begin reshaping them. We will also work on spontaneity and the creative exploration of new ways of being and relating to others. Through this process, you can move from internal conflict and self-doubt toward a more integrated, secure sense of self.
If you are seeking attachment-based therapy in Northern Virginia, our work will focus not just on symptom relief, but on deep relational healing.
Psychodynamic and Attachment-Focused Approach to Therapy
My clinical lens is psychodynamic and attachment-oriented, meaning we explore how early relationships influence your current emotional experiences, self-worth, and interpersonal dynamics.
At the same time, I integrate evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you manage immediate concerns. This balanced approach allows us to:
- Reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms
- Strengthen emotional regulation
- Increase insight into attachment patterns
- Improve relationship dynamics
- Develop practical coping tools
- Build greater resilience and self-trust
Therapy becomes both a place of understanding and transformation — where insight and action work together.
My work is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and grounded in social awareness. I strive to create a secure therapeutic relationship where you feel seen, respected, and supported. I have worked with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family and relationship issues. I also have a strong interest in women’s health.
Supporting Life Transitions and Cross-Cultural Experiences
Having personally experienced immigration and cultural transition, I understand how major life changes can impact identity, belonging, and emotional well-being.
Transitions often activate attachment fears and uncertainty. In therapy, we work with these experiences realistically while cultivating strength, humor, and hope. Together, we develop coping strategies that support long-term growth and relational security.
Professional Background and Clinical Experience
With over 15 years of experience in behavioral health, I have worked in community mental health and hospital settings serving diverse populations across the lifespan. My academic training includes:
- Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The College of William & Mary
- Master’s Degree in Psychology from The City College of New York
- Undergraduate studies in Psychology at Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil)
This foundation supports my integrative, culturally attuned, and attachment-informed approach to therapy. If you are looking for individual therapy in Falls Church or the Northern Virginia area, I welcome the opportunity to support your growth. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, disconnected in relationships, or struggling with long-standing emotional patterns, therapy can help you proceed with increased clarity and stability.
Healing happens in relationships. The therapeutic partnership we build becomes a space where new patterns of safety, trust, and emotional regulation can emerge. Together, we can help you reconnect with your authentic self — and learn to move forward with greater confidence, resilience, and relational security.
Languages: English and Portuguese
To make an appointment, please call 703-231-7991 or email to info@dcvacounseling-psychotherapy.com
Mirlene works under the supervision of Andreea Sofalvi, LPC, PhD.
