Alexandra Keirstead
MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR, EMDR CERTIFIED THERAPIST, TRAINED THERAPIST IN IFS, GOTTMAN COUPLES THERAPY: COMPLETED LEVEL 1 TRAINING
Starting therapy is an act of courage, hope, and will. It takes guts to open up, examine yourself, and work toward positive change. Even if you feel desperate and alone, in therapy you can find encouragement and support.
My name is Alexandra, and I am a cheerful trauma therapist. Why cheerful? Because, as a therapist and as a client, I have seen change, healing, and peace. When someone is overwhelmed by thoughts, emotions, and physical stress, I see the body and brain working overtime to heal. Therapy supports that healing process as the counselor and client work together to clean out old trauma and develop the life the client wants to lead.
The therapeutic relationship is different than other relationships. Can you trust this person? Ask your counselor questions, listen, and pay attention to your gut feeling. Finding the right therapist is about finding the right fit. My experience as a teacher, administrator, salesperson, volunteer, and family member has allowed me to gain understanding and empathy for a variety of life challenges. My training as a counselor helps me listen to my clients with openness and compassion as I seek to understand their life experience.
Some quick tidbits that describe me
Enthusiastic – I get excited about life, learning, and seeing clients making positive changes.
Thoughtful – I am fascinated by people and their limitless intelligence and adaptability. I love uncovering my clients’ strengths, seeing how they have survived and thrived in the face of challenges. Each person has a unique and interesting story, and I feel privileged to learn from my clients.
Creative – If there is a different way to do something, I always want to know! I love creativity in all its forms. I can’t draw or paint, but I love art. You don’t want to hear me sing, but I love music! Creativity shows up in so many areas of life—a new recipe, a breakthrough in medicine, a different route to work. Big and small, I celebrate creativity.
Compassionate – I grew up in a large family and a small town. When you know people and their lives, you get to learn from their experiences as well as your own. Understand where someone is coming from, listen deeply to them, and realize that our shared humanity overcomes differences of background, thought, and opinion.
Fun-Loving – If it’s not fun, I don’t want to do it. Yes, I have to take care of the boring stuff of life just like anybody does, but finding the spark, the interest, the cool part really keeps me going. Laughter is awesome — let’s share some!
On the weekends you'll find me...
Enjoying an urban trail, cooking up a storm for family and friends, stuck in a corner with my nose in a book, or watching a sunset on the family farm.
How to pick the right therapist
There are a lot of therapists to consider when trying to decide who to trust. With varying skills and credentials to consider, choosing the right therapist can be tough. It’s much like a pair of pants; you search until you find the one that fits just right. The good news is that there IS a reliable way to tell if you and your therapist are a going to mesh: if you click from the get-go, it’s a good sign.
So, take your time and trust your gut.
I hope this page portrays a revealing snapshot of my personality and professional style. If you think we might be a good fit, give me a call (703)919-5543 or send me an email and let’s talk. I am happy to offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to help you decide. What do you have to lose? And imagine all that you might gain.
Request an appointment with Alexandra:
Credentials:
Licensed Professional Counseling in Virginia; License # 0701008653
Certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Training in:
