Our therapists use a results-oriented approach designed to meet your unique needs. They are dedicated to empathetic, empowerment-based support.
Our therapists have either completed or are currently enrolled in our Trauma-Informed Clinical Practice certificate program. As such, they promote anti-racism, belief in the survivors of sexual assault, and other anti-discriminatory beliefs.
Many also participate in trainings on brain-based therapies, couples therapy, sensorimotor approaches, and more. Because Viva trainings and supervisions are either free or heavily subsidized, our therapists are able to place heavy emphasis on continued learning.
Every Viva therapist is fully licensed in the District of Columbia and is in good standing with their professional boards. Their rates correlate to their training and experience as follows: Expert Clinicians $255/session; Supervisors $225/session; Licensed Independent Clinicians $195/session; Licensed Graduate Clinicians $180/session.
Clinical Supervisor
Elizabeth Galasso
Elizabeth uses a mindful, strengths-based, family systems based approach to support adolescents, adults, families and groups. She specializes in substance use and the intersection of mental health and addictions. She implements EMDR to support her clients as well. Liz is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) of DC, as well, is licensed to practice in Virginia and Delaware.
Viva Clinicians
Aurena Green
Aurena uses mindfulness, person-centered, and yogic approaches to treat different forms of trauma in her clients. She’s trained in brain and body based modalities, including Brainspotting and EMDR, that create a safe environment for her clients to heal and explore. Aurena is a Licensed Resident in Counseling in Virginia (#0704014477).
Sheryl Walden
Sheryl uses a strength-based, trauma-informed approach to address issues of attachment and relationships, grief and loss, anxiety and depression. Sheryl has experience working with adults, families, young adults, and children. She is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) of DC, as well as a LCSW-C in MD, and LCSW in CA.
LGPC, NCC
Teayra Turner
Teayra uses her engaged person-centered approach, as well as Brainspotting and Mindfulness, to help adolescents and adults experiencing a variety of trauma and emotional distress. Teayra has experience working with addiction, depression, anxiety, race-based trauma, women’s issues, as well as grief and loss. Teayra is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in DC, as well as a National Certified Counselor.
Hannah Braune Friedman
Hannah is an experienced trauma-informed therapist with over a decade of diverse experiences in the US and Israel. Her work experience includes, a domestic violence shelter, a rape crisis center, a mental health clinic, schools, and private settings. As such, she cherishes the opportunity to help her clients reduce anxiety, depression and many other normal symptoms coming out of trauma with implementation of mindfulness, play therapy, and Brainspotting. Hannah is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) of DC, as well as a LCSW-C in MD and LCSW in CT.
LICSW
Alina McClerklin
Community Engagement Specialist
Alina offers both individual and couples therapy, and sex therapy. Her expertise covers relationships, sexuality, domestic violence, and other forms of trauma. Alina is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) of DC.
LICSW
Megan Munzert
Megan uses mindfulness and experiential techniques along with Brainspotting. She specializes in PTSD, depression, relationship issues, and anxiety. Megan is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) of DC.
LICSW
Stacey Thompson
Stacey utilizes techniques from body-oriented psychotherapies, mindfulness and brain-based therapies. She specializes in supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, major life transitions, and those working to recover from traumatic experiences. Stacey is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) of DC.
LICSW
Regina Tosca
Community Engagement Specialist
Regina uses techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, and much more, to treat issues such as grief, anxiety, and trauma. She has extensive experience working with chronic and terminal illness in a hospital setting. Regina is passionate about working with companion animal bereavement. She is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) of DC.
Expert Clinician
LICSW
Dr. Julie Lopez
Founder/Strategist
Julie is the founder of the Viva Center and the creator of the Trauma-Informed Clinical Practice course. She offers short-term, intensive treatment for interested clients, which incorporates brain and body-based approaches like EMDR. Julie is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) of DC.
