Meet Alyssa Teitsma, LPC – your therapist

| Maternal Mental Health & Child Therapy |

 With a compassionate and supportive approach, Alyssa is committed to guiding you with empathy and understanding. Helping mothers and kids in Reston, Herndon, and throughout Virginia.

The Foundation of My Practice

When facing important decisions, start with the “why”. I started my counseling practice with the goal of helping people grow, change, and thrive.

With over a decade of experience in schools and private practice, I offer a compassionate, real-world approach to supporting children, teens, and families. My perspective deepened profoundly when I became a mother to my two daughters; navigating the interplay of parenting firsthand ignited a passion for helping others move from survival mode to settled strength.

I specialize in helping parents reclaim their own nourishment while building effective, everyday strategies for their children. Whether I am supporting a child with big emotions or a mother navigating a new chapter in their parenthood journey, my focus is on the whole person- not just the problem. Together, we’ll create a path toward confidence and connection that feels entirely your own.

I approach each session with an open mind and open heart. Cliché? Maybe- but a therapeutic environment free from judgement or shame is the first step in working towards identifying dysfunctional patterns, building trust, and creating meaningful change that will help you meet your goals.

A mother with curly hair is holding her young daughter  with blonde hair on a beach during a colorful sunset, both smiling and enjoying the moment.
A landscape view of distant mountain ranges under a cloudy sky, with a misty, bluish hue

My Journey and Approach to Care

In this space, my approach centers on providing evidence-based, collaborative support that honors each individual's unique story and empowers sustainable growth.

My journey as a helper started in middle school where I was trained as a peer mediator. In college I studied psychology and continued my education journey at The University of Virginia earning a degree in Counselor Education. Since my graduation in 2011, I have worked as a school counselor across the K-12 setting, helping countless children and families navigate mental health care. Now as a private practitioner, I continue to work with children and families in a more comprehensive and holistic fashion.

Outside of the counseling world I am a mother, dog lover, gardener, green-living enthusiast, and insatiable reader. I am passionate about social justice and raising awareness of, and normalizing mental health.

Ultimately, I strive to provide a thoughtful and welcoming space where clients find the balance of deep acceptance and the practical tools they need to thrive.

Nice to meet you!