Virginia Psychological Solutions, PLLC

Susan A. Etkind, PsyD, PhD

Clinical Psychologist, VA License # 0810004926

Populations Served

Children and Adolescents

Children and teens often struggle to put their feelings into words.  Therapy gives them a safe, supportive space to explore emotions, guild coping skills, and develop confidence.

I use a flexible, developmentally informed approach that blends play-based strategies, creative expression, and talk therapy.  Sessions typically include time with you as the parent so we can strengthen routines, communication, and problem-solving at home.  As your child becomes more comfortable and independent, I gradually shift more time to working with them directly.

Common concerns I help with:

  • Anxiety, worries, and perfectionism
  • Emotional regulation and big feelings
  • School stress, transitions, and academic pressure
  • Social challenges and self-esteem
  • Family conflict or communication difficulties

 My goal is to help your child feel understood, capable, and more in control of their inner world.

 

Parents

Parenting a child who is anxious, struggling, or highly sensitive can feel overwhelming.  You may be doing everything you can – and still feel stuck.  Parent training gives you clear, evidence-based tools to support your child’s growth while reducing stress at home.

I am trained in SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) and Triple P (Positive Parenting Program), two highly effective, research-supported approaches that help parents:

  • Reduce conflict and escalation
  • Respond to anxiety in ways that promote independence
  • Build calmer, more predictable routines
  • Strengthen connection and communication
  • Support emotional resilience

Parent training is not about blame – it is about opportunity – giving you strategies that work and teaching you to help your child thrive.

Adults

Many adults come to therapy feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward.  Whether you are navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationships challenges, or burnout, therapy offers a space to slow down, reflect, and build tools that support long-term well-being.

My approach blends cognitive-behavioral strategies with supportive, insight-oriented work.  Together, we will explore patterns, strengthen coping skills, and help you feel more grounded and empowered in daily life.

Areas of focus include:

  • Anxiety and stress
  • Self-esteem and self-criticism
  • Life transitions
  • Relationship patterns
  • Work-life balance and burnout

 

Approach

I believe therapy works best when it feels collaborative, respectful, and tailored to your unique needs.  I draw from evidence-based practices while keeping sessions warm, practical, and grounded in real-life challenges.

Across all ages I focus on:

  • Building emotional awareness and resilience
  • Strengthening communication and relationships
  • Developing coping skills that last
  • Supporting growth at home, school, and work
  • Creating a safe, nonjudgemental space for reflection

For children and teens, I use a hybrid model that includes both individual time and parent involvement.  For adults I offer a balance of skill-building and deeper insight work.

 

Telehealth

I am available for appointments via telehealth only.  All telehealth sessions are conducted by HIPAA-secure video platforms.  I provide teletherapy to clients located in Virginia as well as to clients located in states who participate with PSYPACT (an interstate compact designed to facilitate the practice of telepsychology).  To see a list of PSYPACT participating states, please click here:

Map – Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT).

 

 

Getting Started

Reaching out for support is a big step.  If you are ready to begin, or if you have any questions I can answer, I am here to help.

You do not have to navigate this alone.

I would be honored to help you and your family.

To get started, contact me here.