Traci Whitley, LMFT, Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist

Therapy is only successful when the therapeutic relationship is a good fit. It's important that your therapist "gets" you. My priority is to ensure that you feel safe, supported, empowered, and heard. My approach is simple, "You're driving the car. I'll be your navigator." Good therapy is not simply about the reduction of symptoms. It's about increasing your capacity for connection and joy. I believe in resiliency. I believe in the capacity of couples to reconnect and find a stronger bond - even when things have been really hard. I believe in post traumatic stress, but more importantly, I believe in post traumatic growth. My therapeutic style is supportive, compassionate, and transparent. I operate from a strengths-based approach, meaning I see and honor the strengths you already possess. I'm here to empower you as we amplify your existing skills and capacities and work together to cultivate new strategies. I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist (EFT) specializing couples who wish to build and strengthen their communication, connection and trust. I work with individuals to reconnect with hope, resilience, and joy using advanced training in EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and other evidence-based therapeutic techniques. As a Marine Corps spouse for over 20 years, I have a deep connection and appreciation for military families. I have a unique understanding of both the challenges and the tenacity military members and their families possess. Through my own lived experiences and specialized trainings, I have specific expertise working with active duty service members, veterans, and their families. The Coastal Center for Connection office is located in the West End area of Richmond and is conveniently located off of 295 for in-person appointments. I also offer video telehealth appointments for those who are further away and/or prefer the convenience of meeting from the comfort of home. **Please Note: I am presently not taking new clients (this does not apply to returning clients.) However, I would be happy to refer you to trusted colleagues with immediate availability that may be a good fit. Please contact me through this portal to make the request.**