Family Counseling

Strengthening families through communication, connection, and care

Family Counseling provides a safe space for families to work through challenges together. Our licensed counselors use evidence-based approaches to help families improve communication, resolve conflicts, and build stronger relationships. Whether you’re navigating life changes, coping with stress, or healing from past experiences, we work with you to create a healthier family dynamic.

Counseling sessions are tailored to each family’s unique needs. We guide you through practical strategies for problem-solving, help you understand each other’s perspectives, and support you in setting shared goals for the future.

Why Family Counseling Matters

Creating lasting change at home

Strong family relationships are built on trust, understanding, and shared goals. Our counseling services help families overcome obstacles and strengthen their foundation—so they can thrive together now and in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Types of Therapy Offered

Our team includes child and family therapists trained in a variety of brief, short-term, evidence-based interventions, including:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Helps clients identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors to improve emotional well-being.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Teaches skills for managing emotions, improving relationships, and reducing stress.

Motivational Interviewing

Encourages positive change by helping clients set and achieve personal goals.

Solution-Focused Treatments

Concentrates on strengths and resources to quickly work toward specific solutions.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Helps reduce distress from traumatic memories and promotes healing.

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

Specialized therapy for children, adolescents, and families to overcome the effects of trauma.

Play and Art Therapy

Uses creative expression to help children process emotions and experiences in a safe environment.

Additional Support Through Group Programs

For Children’s Sake

Helping children adjust to life after separation or divorce.
This group supports parents in minimizing conflict and prioritizing their child’s emotional well-being. Participants learn strategies to co-parent effectively and create a stable, supportive environment for their children.

View Flyer

Promoting Positive Partnerships

Strengthening relationships through communication and understanding.
Designed for couples, this program focuses on building trust, improving problem-solving skills, and fostering mutual respect—creating stronger, healthier partnerships.

View Flyer

New Visions

Recovery support through connection and education.
This program offers a safe space for teens navigating substance use recovery to build coping skills, set goals, and connect with others on a similar journey.

View Flyer

Our Team

Our Team

Kati Calletto, LPC, CSOTP
Angely Morales, LPC
Rebecca Ellis, LCSW
Richelle Burney, LCSW, CSAC, SOTP Trainee
Teresa Stafford, MSW
Renee Spence, RPRS, FPRS
Ann Varatharaj, MA, LPC
Arielle Shipp, LPC, PMH-C
Ashlee Collister, LCSW, CSOTP
Heather Arnett, EDS, LPC, LSATP, CSAC
Heather Harris, BA, QMHP-A/C, CSAC
Hunter Staylor, LCSW
Latesa Chavis, MA, Resident in Counseling
Megan Bader, MSW, Supervisee in Social Work
Raven Fells, MSW, Supervisee in Social Work
Sam Bean, MA, Resident in Counseling
Sarah Carlson, MSW, Supervisee in Social Work
Sharon Reams, LCSW
Tania Green, LPC
Kati Colletto Outpatient Counseling
Outpatient Clinical Director

As Outpatient Clinical Director, I oversee the administrative and clinical operations of our outpatient counseling programs at The Up Center. I began my journey here as an Intensive In-Home clinician before moving into leadership roles, where I now focus on ensuring quality services and supporting our dedicated clinical staff. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a Master’s degree in Community Mental Health Counseling, and professional licenses as an LPC and CSOTP.

I’m motivated by the opportunity to guide and mentor clinicians as they grow in their careers while helping clients achieve their goals. I’m especially proud of fostering a team culture where compassion and professional growth go hand in hand. Outside of work, I recently discovered my love for learning ceramics and pottery!

Associate Outpatient Director

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor supporting clients diagnosed with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health concerns while also assisting with clinical leadership. I bring years of experience providing therapy and program oversight to ensure high-quality services. 
I’m motivated by helping clients build confidence, resilience, and positive self-concepts as they work toward their goals. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends.

Substance Use Program Manager

I oversee the provision of outpatient substance use services, ensuring clients receive high-quality, evidence-based care. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a Master’s degree in Social Work, with extensive clinical leadership experience. 
I am motivated by the opportunity to connect with people and help them access the support they need for recovery. Fun fact: I’m proud mom to foster children.

Richelle (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW/Virginia), a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC/Virginia), and a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC/National). She obtained both her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Masters in Social Work from Norfolk State University. Richelle has provided clinical therapy and other direct care services for the last 10 years to children, adolescents, adults, and families. For the last 5 years, Richelle has specialized in Substance Use Treatment as a result of the overwhelming need that she saw in the community. As a result, during her tenure at Community Solutions, she was instrumental in opening the Hampton Roads first level 3.1 inpatient facility. During this time, she served as the clinical and program director while supervising clinicians and peer recovery specialists. Most recently, Richelle was drawn to The Up Center to start a Substance Use program to ensure outpatient services were accessible to under and uninsured individuals in her community. Richelle sees clients in person in the Ghent office and via telehealth on a limited basis. 

Outpatient Program Coordinator

I support our counseling team with administrative needs, scheduling, and ensuring smooth coordination of services for clients. My background includes work with individuals, groups, and systems to promote access to mental health care. 
My passion for trauma-informed care and reducing barriers to services motivates my work every day. I am happiest when I am outside, especially near the water or in nature. 

Clinical Intake Coordinator

As the Clinical Intake Coordinator, I am one of the first points of contact for clients, helping them access services and providing initial support and referrals. I am a Registered Peer Recovery Specialist with forensic peer support training. 
I enjoy seeing individuals receive the services and care they need to start their path toward wellness. Outside of work, I love caring for plants and creating a green space at home. 

Outpatient Clinician

I work with individuals to help them reach their goals using art therapy and mental health counseling approaches. I received my Master’s degree in Counseling and Art Therapy and bring creative, client-centered techniques to my work. 
What I enjoy most about my role is getting to know people’s stories and helping them express themselves in meaningful ways. I also enjoy plein air painting during long hikes in my free time.

Outpatient Clinician

My role is to help clients improve their emotional well-being using evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I integrate various counseling techniques to best support each client’s unique needs. 
My motivation for working in a non-profit setting comes from a passion for helping others achieve their personal goals and emotional wellness. I enjoy reading, crocheting, and spending time outdoors in my free time. 

Outpatient Clinician

I provide counseling services to individuals, couples, and families using evidence-based practices such as TF-CBT and EMDR. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with specialized training in trauma-informed care. 
I’m motivated by the desire to help others develop healthier coping skills and improve their mental well-being. Outside of work, you can often find me at the beach enjoying the outdoors.

I provide therapy via telehealth for individuals, couples, and families, addressing concerns such as depression, anxiety, grief, autism, and substance use recovery. I draw on both personal and professional experience with military families to inform my approach.

I’m motivated by the tremendous need for access to quality mental health services in our community. I especially value witnessing personal growth and positive change in the lives of others. Outside of work, my spouse and I moved to Tennessee in 2021, but we love visiting Virginia and D.C. to spend time with family and friends.

I am an Adolescent Community Reinforcement Approach (A-CRA) clinician, providing evidence-based counseling and support for youth and families affected by substance use. I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree, am a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP-A/C), and am pursuing certification as a CSAC. 
I’m motivated by the opportunity to help youth and families find hope and healing through counseling. Outside of work, I have a strong connection to the outdoors and enjoy spending time in nature.

Outpatient Clinician & Group Facilitator

I serve as an outpatient clinician providing mental health and substance use counseling for individuals and families. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience supporting people through trauma-informed care. 
I value working in a supportive environment where we can create meaningful change for clients. Outside of work, I enjoy playing soccer, coaching, and engaging in community activities.

I am a Resident in Counseling, working toward licensure while providing mental health counseling for individuals and families. I hold a B.A. in Sociology from Norfolk State University and a Master’s degree in Counseling. 
The Up Center’s long-standing reputation for helping people through difficult times motivates me every day. It’s important to me that people feel seen and supported in their journeys. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. 

New Visions Community-Based Clinician, Outpatient Clinician And Group Facilitator

I serve as a clinician with the New Visions program, providing counseling and support for youth and families impacted by substance use. My work focuses on helping clients build healthier futures through evidence-based interventions and support. 
I’m motivated by seeing the positive impact, even in small moments, as individuals and families move toward recovery and stability. In my free time, I’m building a home library to enjoy my love of reading. 

As an Outpatient Clinician, I provide individual counseling services to children, adolescents, and adults to support their mental and emotional wellness. I’m a Supervisee in Social Work with professional experience in trauma-informed care and person-centered therapy.

I’m motivated by the opportunity to help individuals and families navigate challenges and find strength in their stories. I especially enjoy seeing smiling faces and hearing how clients are growing in confidence and stability through their counseling journey.

Sam (she/her) is a Resident in Counseling working towards becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor. Sam pursued her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Regent and graduated in December 2022. Sam is trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), and Gottman Level 1 training for Couples therapy. She currently utilizes EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Person-Centered Therapy to approach the uniqueness of her clients. Sam has a special interest in working with couples and young adults. Sam believes every person who shares space in session with her is unique. Sam works alongside her clients while exploring their journey of becoming the best versions of themselves. 

I provide outpatient counseling to individuals seeking support for a variety of mental health concerns, helping clients achieve emotional well-being. I hold a BSW from James Madison University and have experience working with diverse populations. 
I enjoy being an active part of the 757 community and helping clients find strength and hope in their journeys. Outside of work, I love visiting the beach and spending time outdoors.

Sharon Reams
Director of Youth Services & Outpatient Clinician

I oversee the Foster Care and Team Up mentoring programs, ensuring high-quality support for youth and families across Hampton Roads. In addition to her role as director, I currently sees Outpatient clients on a limited basis, both in person in the Ghent office and via telehealth. I’m trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy and TF-CBT (Trauma Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). With over 20 years of child welfare experience and a Master of Social Work degree, I bring deep knowledge and dedication to my role. 
As a Hampton Roads native, I’m passionate about helping children and families thrive and reach their full potential. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and engaging in community activities.

Outpatient Clinician

I serve as an outpatient counselor, providing therapy and mental health support for individuals and families. I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have experience supporting clients through trauma-informed approaches. 
I’m motivated to work at The Up Center because it creates opportunities for people to heal and grow. Outside of work, I enjoy pottery classes and exploring creative hobbies. 

DONATE
img

Thank You for Contacting Us

A member of our team will reach out to you shortly.