My name is Jackie (she/her), and I am the founder and owner of Renew Art Therapy and Counseling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered, Board Certified Art Therapist with over 15 years of clinical and supervisory experience. I am trained in trauma-informed art therapy, sand tray therapy, play therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS). As an art therapist, I believe the creative process has the power to enhance the traditional talk therapy experience, enabling one to access their authentic self. As such, I actively incorporate art, play, and sand tray therapy into my work.

As your therapist, my goal is to offer you a nurturing and calm environment—one where you feel truly seen, accepted, and understood. I will celebrate you as you gain deeper insight into yourself—your strengths, your longings, and your challenges—and I will faithfully walk alongside you with care and dedication as you explore new paths. Together, we will build a framework that helps you understand your world and reconnect with your sense of wholeness.

I specialize in women’s issues, parenting, trauma-based disorders, anxiety, depression, and life transitions—especially the unique challenges of being a third-culture kid. I also have a special interest in supporting fellow clinicians on their personal and professional journeys. In addition, I offer both in-person and virtual supervision for those pursuing their ATR-BC and LPC in Virginia.

MY STORY

From a young age, I turned to art and music for safety and expression. Growing up abroad, needing roots and stability, the arts were my dependable companion that helped me stay connected to my true self. Then, as a young adult, I was unexpectedly introduced to art therapy while working as a paraprofessional for a young boy diagnosed with autism. I was struck by the powerful, non-verbal connection we established while engaging in the art-making process. Watching the transformative power of art therapy with this young boy, I became convinced that I needed to enter this profession and offer this gift to others. 

After five years working in the mental health field, particularly in end-of-life care, and then welcoming my first child, I realized the importance of creating more balance in life. In response, I opened my private practice in 2015. This allowed me to broaden my client reach and engage with a wide range of issues. By 2019, I felt called to expand that vision further—believing in the power of collaboration to foster deeper healing and growth. That is when Renew was born: a team of therapists working together to support the whole self.

CREDENTIALS

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC in VA): 0701006837 Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC): 13-179