Our Counselors
Annetta (Benjamin) Guillen Garcia, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor/ Clinical Supervisor
Life can be pretty challenging and tough, especially when you’re struggling to overcome a fear, habit, relationship, confusion, or just plain stress. However, there is always hope, particularly when times become difficult. As a Counselor, I truly enjoy my skill in fostering hope in the lives of individuals and families. Below is some information on my background as a Counselor.
I have a Master’s degree in Pastoral Counseling from Marymount University, Arlington, VA. During my internship as a graduate student I worked as a Spiritual Care & Bereavement Coordinator at a hospice agency. Upon graduation, I continued to work as Bereavement Counselor for three years. During that time I organized and conducted several successful bereavement camps for youth who had lost a loved one. In the past, I have also worked as a Qualified Mental Health Professional for five years in Home Based Counseling, with a focus of working with children, teens, and parents. All together I have worked in the counseling field for over 17 years helping individuals and families improve their lives.
Now as a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor (NCC) in private practice for over nine years, I specialize in counseling children, adolescents, and young adults with behavior, academic, self-esteem, coping, communication, bereavement, and anger issues. I also counsel adults, couples, and the elderly with spiritual, bereavement, communication, family, relationships, and anxiety concerns.
Along with counseling individuals and families, I supervise both undergraduate and graduate counseling interns as well as Resident In Counseling therapists, who are in the process of becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor. In addition to supervision, I also provide onsite in-services for companies, churches, schools, and community centers regarding grief and loss, stress management, wellness, self-esteem, depression, and suicide.
As a caring counselor, I truly look forward to building an empowering and self-fulfilling relationship with you!
Accepts: Anthem BC/BS and Health Keepers, Carefirst, Cigna, Humana/ Tricare, United Health Care, and Self-pay
Location: Telehealth and In-Person until June 1st, 2023
Life can be pretty challenging and tough, especially when you’re struggling to overcome a fear, habit, relationship, confusion, or just plain stress. However, there is always hope, particularly when times become difficult. As a Counselor, I truly enjoy my skill in fostering hope in the lives of individuals and families. Below is some information on my background as a Counselor.
I have a Master’s degree in Pastoral Counseling from Marymount University, Arlington, VA. During my internship as a graduate student I worked as a Spiritual Care & Bereavement Coordinator at a hospice agency. Upon graduation, I continued to work as Bereavement Counselor for three years. During that time I organized and conducted several successful bereavement camps for youth who had lost a loved one. In the past, I have also worked as a Qualified Mental Health Professional for five years in Home Based Counseling, with a focus of working with children, teens, and parents. All together I have worked in the counseling field for over 17 years helping individuals and families improve their lives.
Now as a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor (NCC) in private practice for over nine years, I specialize in counseling children, adolescents, and young adults with behavior, academic, self-esteem, coping, communication, bereavement, and anger issues. I also counsel adults, couples, and the elderly with spiritual, bereavement, communication, family, relationships, and anxiety concerns.
Along with counseling individuals and families, I supervise both undergraduate and graduate counseling interns as well as Resident In Counseling therapists, who are in the process of becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor. In addition to supervision, I also provide onsite in-services for companies, churches, schools, and community centers regarding grief and loss, stress management, wellness, self-esteem, depression, and suicide.
As a caring counselor, I truly look forward to building an empowering and self-fulfilling relationship with you!
Accepts: Anthem BC/BS and Health Keepers, Carefirst, Cigna, Humana/ Tricare, United Health Care, and Self-pay
Location: Telehealth and In-Person until June 1st, 2023
Cynthia L. Zorn-Pettigrew, MSW, LCSW, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
(Currently Inactive as of 1/1/23)
“Action may not always bring happiness, but there is no happiness without action.” - William James
Your decision to seek assistance in dealing with life’s current challenges is to be commended. It is my goal to provide a confidential and supportive therapeutic environment in which you are able to activate the skills needed to enhance the quality of your life.
I have over 30 years of experience in the behavioral health field, and have worked in outpatient mental health, residential treatment, schools, and alcoholism/substance abuse treatment settings. My client population consists of children, adolescents, adults, couples, and groups. Their presenting concerns include issues related to depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, phobias, trauma, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder, coping, anger management, social skills, problem-solving, and self-exploration.
My style of therapy is to appreciate the uniqueness of each individual and to work together in establishing treatment goals and achieving them. I use a variety of theoretical approaches tailored to meet your specific therapeutic needs.
Accepts: Aetna, Anthem BC/BS and Health Keepers, Carefirst, Cigna, Humana/ Tricare, United Health Care, and Self-pay
(Currently Inactive as of 1/1/23)
“Action may not always bring happiness, but there is no happiness without action.” - William James
Your decision to seek assistance in dealing with life’s current challenges is to be commended. It is my goal to provide a confidential and supportive therapeutic environment in which you are able to activate the skills needed to enhance the quality of your life.
I have over 30 years of experience in the behavioral health field, and have worked in outpatient mental health, residential treatment, schools, and alcoholism/substance abuse treatment settings. My client population consists of children, adolescents, adults, couples, and groups. Their presenting concerns include issues related to depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, phobias, trauma, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder, coping, anger management, social skills, problem-solving, and self-exploration.
My style of therapy is to appreciate the uniqueness of each individual and to work together in establishing treatment goals and achieving them. I use a variety of theoretical approaches tailored to meet your specific therapeutic needs.
Accepts: Aetna, Anthem BC/BS and Health Keepers, Carefirst, Cigna, Humana/ Tricare, United Health Care, and Self-pay
Catric W. Marshall, MS, Resident In Counseling
”The one thing that you have that nobody else has is you. Your voice, your mind, your story, and your vision…” Neil Gaiman
Making the decision to seek help is the first step to realizing that you have the power and choice to create the life you desire. Life has its ups and downs; work can be stressful, raising children is challenging, relationships change, and loved ones may pass away. All of these challenges can have an intense impact of your mood, thoughts, relationships, and motivation to participate in daily activities. Counseling provides a safe place for healing, learning, and understanding. It is my passion to view life from your eyes and assist you in overcoming whatever obstacle(s) your dealing with.
I believe in a holistic, collaborative approach to counseling. My style of therapy is to work together to establish treatment goals and achieve them. Some of the presenting concerns of my clients include issues related to: ADD/ADHD, anger management, anxiety, bipolar disorder, boundaries, coping, depression, grief, obsessive-compulsive disorder, perfectionism, phase of life change, problem-solving, self-exploration, social skills, and stress. My clients are women and couples seeking to create balance, identify strengths, and create a healthy self-perception and perspective. Together, we will work to improve your relationships, communication, and overall quality of life.
As a Resident in Counseling, I am pursuing state licensure to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I am a graduate of Capella University with a Master of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling. I completed a 700 hour practicum and internship at Benjamin Counseling Center. I have worked with children, adolescents, teenagers, adults, and couples. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from American Public University System (APUS). I also bring to this profession, my past and current knowledge and experience of being a truancy officer, testing coordinator, health department supervisor, and career and education advisor. I am also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW). I have worked in various government and private sector organizations and settings. I look forward to partnering with you to move forward!
Accepts: Anthem BC/BS and Health Keepers, and Self-pay
Location: Telehealth Sessions ONLY
”The one thing that you have that nobody else has is you. Your voice, your mind, your story, and your vision…” Neil Gaiman
Making the decision to seek help is the first step to realizing that you have the power and choice to create the life you desire. Life has its ups and downs; work can be stressful, raising children is challenging, relationships change, and loved ones may pass away. All of these challenges can have an intense impact of your mood, thoughts, relationships, and motivation to participate in daily activities. Counseling provides a safe place for healing, learning, and understanding. It is my passion to view life from your eyes and assist you in overcoming whatever obstacle(s) your dealing with.
I believe in a holistic, collaborative approach to counseling. My style of therapy is to work together to establish treatment goals and achieve them. Some of the presenting concerns of my clients include issues related to: ADD/ADHD, anger management, anxiety, bipolar disorder, boundaries, coping, depression, grief, obsessive-compulsive disorder, perfectionism, phase of life change, problem-solving, self-exploration, social skills, and stress. My clients are women and couples seeking to create balance, identify strengths, and create a healthy self-perception and perspective. Together, we will work to improve your relationships, communication, and overall quality of life.
As a Resident in Counseling, I am pursuing state licensure to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I am a graduate of Capella University with a Master of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling. I completed a 700 hour practicum and internship at Benjamin Counseling Center. I have worked with children, adolescents, teenagers, adults, and couples. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from American Public University System (APUS). I also bring to this profession, my past and current knowledge and experience of being a truancy officer, testing coordinator, health department supervisor, and career and education advisor. I am also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW). I have worked in various government and private sector organizations and settings. I look forward to partnering with you to move forward!
Accepts: Anthem BC/BS and Health Keepers, and Self-pay
Location: Telehealth Sessions ONLY
Pamela Ambrose, MS, Resident In Counseling
Everyone can use a little help and support in handling life’s problems. Talking with a counselor can help you deal with life stressors, such as negative thoughts, challenging relationships, and depressive moods. Seeking professional can help you receive the feedback and insight how you perceive others and yourself.
I earned my Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Delta State University (Cleveland, MS) in 2003. My undergraduate courses at Delta State University provided me with a strong foundation in justice, law, ethics, and criminology theory. In 2019, I received my Masters in Family and Therapy at Capella University. The graduate courses at Capella provided me with a strong basis in Assessment, Test and Measures, Theories of personality, Professional Ethics in Marriage and Family Counseling/Therapy, Principles of Psychopathology and Diagnosis, Sexual Issues in Couples and Family Therapy, and Ethical and Legal Issues in Professional Counseling.
In my professional career, I was previously employed as a Teacher Assistant/Substitute Teacher for Prince William County school district in which I assisted in working with Special Education-ED students. I primarily aided students with identified conditions such as psychosis, schizophrenia, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, anxiety, depression, and Autism Spectrum disorder.
I have completed my graduate coursework, and I am working on finishing my clinical hours to pursue my License Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT) licensure. Currently, I am employed at the Benjamin Counseling Center as a resident in counseling.
Overall, counseling can also be used as a tool for overcoming a variety of issues, and other debilitating circumstances. Regardless of your initial reason for seeking counseling, learning how to cope with life’s endless trials and challenges is key to a healthy and functional way of life. I look forward to working with you at Benjamin Counseling Center.
Accepts: Anthem BC/BS and Health Keepers, and Self-pay
Location: Telehealth ONLY
Everyone can use a little help and support in handling life’s problems. Talking with a counselor can help you deal with life stressors, such as negative thoughts, challenging relationships, and depressive moods. Seeking professional can help you receive the feedback and insight how you perceive others and yourself.
I earned my Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Delta State University (Cleveland, MS) in 2003. My undergraduate courses at Delta State University provided me with a strong foundation in justice, law, ethics, and criminology theory. In 2019, I received my Masters in Family and Therapy at Capella University. The graduate courses at Capella provided me with a strong basis in Assessment, Test and Measures, Theories of personality, Professional Ethics in Marriage and Family Counseling/Therapy, Principles of Psychopathology and Diagnosis, Sexual Issues in Couples and Family Therapy, and Ethical and Legal Issues in Professional Counseling.
In my professional career, I was previously employed as a Teacher Assistant/Substitute Teacher for Prince William County school district in which I assisted in working with Special Education-ED students. I primarily aided students with identified conditions such as psychosis, schizophrenia, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, anxiety, depression, and Autism Spectrum disorder.
I have completed my graduate coursework, and I am working on finishing my clinical hours to pursue my License Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT) licensure. Currently, I am employed at the Benjamin Counseling Center as a resident in counseling.
Overall, counseling can also be used as a tool for overcoming a variety of issues, and other debilitating circumstances. Regardless of your initial reason for seeking counseling, learning how to cope with life’s endless trials and challenges is key to a healthy and functional way of life. I look forward to working with you at Benjamin Counseling Center.
Accepts: Anthem BC/BS and Health Keepers, and Self-pay
Location: Telehealth ONLY
LaSheika Hill, DD, MDIV
I am a retired military service member (Army) of 20 years. My passion is to serve people and help them, to improve themselves from the inside and out. During my time in the military, I trained and performed duties as a Human Resource Specialist and Manager. In 2009, God called me to Army Chaplaincy, and I immediately enrolled in Seminary through Liberty University with a concentration on Pastoral Counseling.
I have completed over 200 hours of Premarital/Marriage Counseling, Individual, and Alcohol and Substance abuse counseling, through my private practice. I have also completed 400+ hours of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) with Virginia Bible College and Sentara Hospital. In addition, I am an ordained Minister, specializing in Solution Base Focus Therapy (SBFT), pastoral, individual, premarital, marriage and family counseling. Currently I also serve as a part of the Crisis Counseling Ministry at my church of worship, for three years.
Regarding my education, I have obtained a Doctorate of Divinity through Phoenix State University, Masters of Divinity-Pastoral Counseling, Masters in Human Services-Marriage and Family Counseling, Graduate Certificates in Pastoral Counseling and Biblical Studies from Liberty University, Masters and Bachelors in Biblical Studies and Theology from Minnesota, Graduate of Theology. I am also currently pursuing another Doctorate in Ministry with a concentration on Pastoral Care, through Virginia Bible College. Upon graduating seminary and other graduate programs, I decided to open my own counseling practice in 2016, where I have been practicing part-time. Recently, in 2020, I started working with Benjamin Counseling Center as a Resident in Counseling to obtain a full licensure in the state of Virginia, under the supervision of Ms. Benjamin. I am looking forward to gaining knowledge, experience, while developing meaningful relationships with my clients and co-workers. I am excited to provide the care of excellence for my clients.
John Maxwell said it best, “People do not care how much you know until they know how much you care.” Serving others is my passion and without God, I could not serve His people.
Accepts: Anthem BC/BS and Health Keepers, and Self-pay
Location: Telehealth and In-Person until June 1st, 2023
I am a retired military service member (Army) of 20 years. My passion is to serve people and help them, to improve themselves from the inside and out. During my time in the military, I trained and performed duties as a Human Resource Specialist and Manager. In 2009, God called me to Army Chaplaincy, and I immediately enrolled in Seminary through Liberty University with a concentration on Pastoral Counseling.
I have completed over 200 hours of Premarital/Marriage Counseling, Individual, and Alcohol and Substance abuse counseling, through my private practice. I have also completed 400+ hours of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) with Virginia Bible College and Sentara Hospital. In addition, I am an ordained Minister, specializing in Solution Base Focus Therapy (SBFT), pastoral, individual, premarital, marriage and family counseling. Currently I also serve as a part of the Crisis Counseling Ministry at my church of worship, for three years.
Regarding my education, I have obtained a Doctorate of Divinity through Phoenix State University, Masters of Divinity-Pastoral Counseling, Masters in Human Services-Marriage and Family Counseling, Graduate Certificates in Pastoral Counseling and Biblical Studies from Liberty University, Masters and Bachelors in Biblical Studies and Theology from Minnesota, Graduate of Theology. I am also currently pursuing another Doctorate in Ministry with a concentration on Pastoral Care, through Virginia Bible College. Upon graduating seminary and other graduate programs, I decided to open my own counseling practice in 2016, where I have been practicing part-time. Recently, in 2020, I started working with Benjamin Counseling Center as a Resident in Counseling to obtain a full licensure in the state of Virginia, under the supervision of Ms. Benjamin. I am looking forward to gaining knowledge, experience, while developing meaningful relationships with my clients and co-workers. I am excited to provide the care of excellence for my clients.
John Maxwell said it best, “People do not care how much you know until they know how much you care.” Serving others is my passion and without God, I could not serve His people.
Accepts: Anthem BC/BS and Health Keepers, and Self-pay
Location: Telehealth and In-Person until June 1st, 2023
Yolanda Mendoza, MS, Resident In Counseling, Bi-lingual (Spanish)
“No puedo cambiar la dirección del viento, pero sí ajustar mis velas para llegar a mi destino.”
– James Dean.
“I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.” – James Dean.
As a Spanish speaking bi-lingual counselor; my philosophy is to meet my clients where they are emotionally. My goal is to provide my clients with the necessary tools to empower themselves in a safe and positive setting. I earned my Master of Science in Community Counseling from Georgia State University.
In my career, I have counseled many individuals with various issues over a period of 10 years. As a former crisis counselor for the Austin Police Department, I specialized as a crisis counselor in numerous crisis situations, including family violence issues, stressful life situations, trauma counseling, and Spanish-community outreach. Previously, I have worked in the hospital setting in Georgia, where I specialized in group, family, couples, and individual counseling. I have also worked as a grief counselor in a hospice environment helping families, adults, adolescents, and children.
As your counselor, I look forward to helping you achieve your goals!
Accepts: Anthem BC/BS and Health Keepers, and Self-pay
Location: Telehealth ONLY