About
You may feel conflicted about seeking therapy.
While therapy can be incredibly helpful, it often requires acknowledging that there is pain, unresolved wounds, and challenges that have not been fully addressed.
The idea of opening up to a “stranger” about deeply personal experiences can feel uncomfortable and even intimidating.
At the same time, seeking therapy is a powerful and courageous step. It means recognizing that you may be overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or struggling with feelings of unworthiness – and choosing to pursue something more for yourself.
I honor your courage.
It is a privilege to serve as a witness to your story and to support you as you navigate your past, present, and future while addressing the symptoms that may be getting in your way.
The grief, trauma, and pain that are carried in silence can have a profound impact on your mental, emotional, and even physical well-being.
Shame and guilt can be heavy burdens, often affecting self-esteem and shaping how you show up in your life and relationships.
This is a safe and supportive space.
In my work, I create a safe and supportive space where you will feel seen and heard. I meet you where you are and support you in exploring your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, including the meanings you may have attached to yourself as a result of trauma, grief, depression, or anxiety.
I may ask questions that will make you feel uncomfortable or difficult to answer, but these moments are part of the growth process.
Together, we work to sit with and understand feelings that you may have avoided, and to gently explore the experiences that led to protective patterns such as masking pain, anger, rejection, or fear.
Move beyond surface-level change.
While therapy can certainly provide space to process and release emotions, I also believe it should be intentional and goal-oriented.
I will collaborate with you to develop clear treatment goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-bound (SMART). We identify objectives to work toward both in and outside of sessions, and I use evidence-based interventions and therapeutic approaches to support meaningful and lasting change.
About Hiyawkal Gizachew, LCSW
A little about my background…
With a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), my professional path has been rooted in understanding and supporting others. I’ve been a licensed clinician since 2015, and since 2011, have had the privilege of serving individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences.
Who I work with and how I help…
My clinical work has primarily focused on supporting clients who have experienced trauma, including childhood trauma and domestic violence, as well as those navigating grief, depression, anxiety, and related challenges.
The trust clients place in me is deeply valued, and being part of their healing journey is an honor I do not take lightly.
My approach to therapy…
Over the years, I’ve received training in a range of evidence-based and trauma-informed approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR, strength-based approaches, attachment-focused work, and trauma-informed care.
These modalities are thoughtfully integrated to meet each client’s unique needs and to support meaningful, lasting change.
What matters most to me in this work…
Compassion, integrity, and respect are at the core of both my personal and professional values.
The privilege of this work is never lost on me, and I strive to foster a therapeutic relationship grounded in trust and authenticity.
What you can expect when we work together…
Creating a space where clients feel seen, heard, and supported is central to my work. The courage it takes to seek therapy is honored, and each person’s journey through grief, trauma, and emotional pain is met with care and intention.
Through compassionate guidance and goal-focused work, clients are supported in building self-understanding, resilience, and a more authentic, fulfilling life.