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 14 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, I will provide you with a nurturing and calm environment where you will feel accepted and understood. I will celebrate you as you develop a deeper understanding of yourself- your strengths, your desires, and your challenges. And I will faithfully walk beside you as you venture into the unknown. Together, you and I will develop a framework to view and understand your world and reestablish your sense of wholeness.

I specialize in women’s issues, parenting, chronic illness, trauma-based disorders, anxiety, depression, and life transitions- in particular the challenges that come with being a third-culture kid. I also have a special interest in serving other clinicians on their road to self-discovery both personally and professionally. Additionally, I offer in-person and video-based supervision to 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 5 years working in the mental health field with end-of-life care and then welcoming my first child, I recognized the need for more balance in life. As such, I opened my private practice in 2015. Here I had the opportunity to expand my client reach and work with a myriad of issues. In 2019, I knew I could create more opportunities for healing and growth by building a team of therapists that worked in collaboration to support the whole self. This is when Renew was born.

CREDENTIALS

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC in VA): 0701006837 Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC): 13-179  Licensed Clinical Professional Art Therapist (LCPAT in MD): ATC 150