Allison Pond

Life is uncertain — and it can change fast, leaving you off balance and wondering how to make sense of your situation, your relationships, and even yourself. From life changes (divorce, death, marriage, puberty, moving) to career changes (changing jobs, retiring, burnout) to internal changes in personal or spiritual beliefs, there’s no end to the kinds of transitions and disruptions that are commonplace in the modern world.

If life’s challenges have you feeling anxious, depressed, disconnected, or confused, I want you to know you don’t have to face them alone. There are tools that can help you find a foothold — and more than a foothold, you can discover deeper meaning, value, and purpose in your life.

I specialize in helping adults and teens navigate life’s complexities. Whether you’re grappling with trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, or embarking on significant life transitions, I’m here to support and walk alongside you. Drawing from evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques, we’ll craft a tailored plan to address your unique needs. My approach is grounded in a holistic perspective, acknowledging the interconnectedness of your mind, body, and emotions. I also believe in the power of creativity to help you tap into your inner wisdom.

In our sessions, you’ll find a safe haven where you’re free to explore, reflect, and evolve. I’m dedicated to fostering a warm, non-judgmental environment where you can authentically engage with your experiences, cultivate insights, and develop practical strategies for lasting change. I’ll also challenge you to dig deeper as we explore your struggles, strengths, values, and aspirations. As a former journalist with a strong appreciation for the human experience, your story matters deeply to me, and my goal is to help you uncover the resilience within you.

MORE ABOUT ME:

Before becoming a counselor, I researched public opinion and worked as a journalist covering social issues. When I’m not working, you can find me at a book club, a meditation retreat, a through-hike somewhere in the world, experimenting in the kitchen, or working on a writing or editing project. I live in Alexandria, VA.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING:

• Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the College of William & Mary, expected August 2024
• Master’s Degree in Public Policy from Georgetown University
• Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism from Brigham Young University
• Member of American Counseling Association (ACA)
• Member of Northern Virginia Licensed Professional Counselors (NVLPC)
• Certified Instructor, Journal to the Self, Therapeutic Writing Institute (TWI)

SUPERVISED BY:

Steffanie Kelshaw, LPC, CSAC

CREDENTIALS:

Resident in Counseling