Heather Schildge

“You can’t go back and make a new start, but you can start right now and make a brand new ending.” – James R. Sherman

As a child I played the board game, Game of Life. Traveling along the game brought many decisions and surprises. From my adult vantage point, I realize that the game not only vastly oversimplified life, it also suggested narrow parameters for how one could and should live. Real life is unpredictable, full of options, and often stressful, especially in Northern Virginia. While many aspects of our environment are out of our control, we have the ability to change how we frame and respond to our circumstances. Therapy can help you build resilience in responding to challenges and thrive even in the midst of uncertainty. Whatever brings you or your child here, I welcome and appreciate you. I will approach our work together with humility, curiosity, and expertise, centering our sessions on you and your goals.

My approach to therapy is client-centered and empowerment based. I believe that you are the expert on yourself, that you have unique talents, and that a deeper understanding of yourself allows you to find solutions to challenges. Drawing on techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and play therapy, I will be a collaborative and supportive partner in reaching your goals. Prior to studying social work, I worked in international law and development, including over 15 years as a foreign service officer frequently posted abroad. I am also the parent of three young adult children. Through my experiences, I have developed a passion for working across cultures, supporting children and families through transitions, and fostering environments where people’s diverse identities are embraced.

MORE ABOUT ME:

• Aside from my human children, I have a spouse and two feline “babies” (actually seniors).

• Biking is my favorite sport and transportation modality. I enjoy being in the woods and on top of mountains, reading, pottery, and getting to know and spend time with others.

I’ve lived in Germany, Lesotho, The Netherlands, The Gambia, the Dominican Republic, Kenya, and Iraq. Exploring new cultures and languages fascinates and humbles me.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING:

• M.S.W. at Virginia Commonwealth University in May 2027
• B.A. in Art History from the University of Pennsylvania
• M.A. in Law and Development from Tufts University
• J.D. from Harvard University
• Mental health trainings completed: Child Centered Play Therapy; Internal Family Systems; Motivational Interviewing; Trauma in Children and Adolescents; Theraplay; and Understanding the Nuances and Complexities of Working with Gender Diverse Youth & Their Families

SUPERVISED BY:

Vanessa Cheshier, LCSW, C-DBT

CREDENTIALS:

Graduate Intern