Vanessa Cheshier, LCSW, C-DBT

Do you experience intense emotions that interfere with your relationships or personal goals? Have you found yourself turning to unhealthy coping strategies to feel better? The world around us can feel overwhelming at times, yet reacting on our immediate emotions can actually make things worse. We often engage in harmful behaviors because they make us feel better in the moment and give us a sense of control in an uncontrollable situation.  Yet these behaviors often end up causing long-term damage that we are later responsible to clean up. Through therapy, we can learn to take a step back, understand and acknowledge our feelings, and make choices that reflect our goals and values.

I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, and a harm-reduction approach to substance use.  I am certified in Invitation to Change (ITC) and trained in Community Reinforcement and Family Training to support those impacted by a loved one’s substance use.  Together, we will draw on your unique strengths to reach your goals while simultaneously providing new skills and techniques to add to your tool belt.  We will develop practical skills that you can start using immediately to replace ineffective or harmful coping strategies. In our sessions, we will learn to manage strong emotions, challenge impulses, tolerate distress, and create a life worth living.

Trying something new is scary. You have already taken the first step, and I am here to walk alongside you in this journey. I prioritize creating a safe, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment as feeling supported is essential to productive therapy. I look forward to taking the next step toward your well-being together.

MORE ABOUT ME:

• I live in Fairfax County with my husband, son, two cats, and dog.
• In my free time I like to play music, go camping and canoeing, and relax by a lake or river.
• I was born and raised in Washington, DC

EDUCATION AND TRAINING:

• Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Catholic University
• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Guilford College
• Certification in DBT from Evergreen (C-DBT )
• Trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Experience working with individuals and groups including adults and adolescents in community mental health, private practice, group homes, and residential treatment

SUPERVISED BY:

DBT Skills Group for Adults

CREDENTIALS:

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy

LICENSE:

VA 0904011355