Counseling Options

We offer free mental health counseling in a supportive, compassionate environment.

Our counselors are highly skilled professionals who are passionate about providing culturally responsive, trauma-informed care that meets the unique needs of each person.

Client sits on a couch across from their counselor during an individual mental health counseling session

Individual Counseling

We provide mental health treatment for issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, navigating difficult relationships, life transitions, and other challenges, to support individuals to increase coping skills and manage symptoms.

Individual counseling sessions require an initial eligibility screening at a wellness clinic. Wellness clinics are free, and open to all women and members of the gender-expansive community. They are offered in person and by phone during specific hours during the week.

Woman leans over railing and looks at camera with shadows cast from the window

What to Expect:

In the first session, participants begin to establish goals for healing and recovery.

Our counselors use a variety of therapeutic approaches based on individual needs. Depending on your goals, you and your therapist will determine what therapeutic approach is most appropriate.

Our counselors are committed to cultivating safety, acceptance, and trust within the therapeutic relationship with participants. People who receive our services frequently report feeling a sense of relief after the first session. More than 80% of individuals experience improved well-being.

Five women sit on couches during a group counseling session in Charlottesville

Group Counseling

We believe that resilience and healing are enhanced through healthy relationships and social support. We provide a variety of options for group therapy for new and returning counseling participants

All our counseling groups require a free screening with a therapist to determine eligibility. 

Upcoming Groups

  • Candle with two garlands on light green backgroun

    Winter Self-Care

    Thursday, November 7, 5–6:30pm

    This time of year, isn't joyful for everyone, and many people feel sad or anxious amidst all the merrymaking. Whether the upcoming season activates unhappy memories, reminds you of a loss or is simply stressful, we invite you to join in the warmth of community for some gentle self-care.

    Click here to register.

  • A heart with two hands surrounding it, all within a garland circle on a dark green background

    Healthy Boundaries During the Holidays

    Tuesday, December 3, 6:30–8pm

    The holidays are a time for connecting with loved ones, and sometimes that can involve difficult relationship dynamics. This workshop offers resources for maintaining healthy boundaries during the holiday season and time to reflect on what healthy boundaries mean and share with one another in a supportive environment.

    Click here to register.

Reflections From Participants

  • "My approach to relationships and my own self-worth has drastically improved. I’m way more in tune with myself and my needs. I’m very grateful for the services provided by The Women’s Initiative, and I honestly don’t know where I would be without them."

    - Counseling Participant

  • “I feel more confident in being able to pursue time and treatments that benefit me alone separately from the needs and demands of my family and community.”

    - Counseling Participant

  • “I can maintain my feelings and emotions better. I can use my breathing practices to calm down when feeling anxious and stressed. I know that my trauma and depression is not all of me but only a small part of me that I can now properly manage.”

    - Counseling Participant

  • “I am able to pause and consider emotions instead of reacting with them, I am calmer, and can navigate arguments and difficult situations much easier than I used to…All in all, I am much happier, positive, and motivated.”

    - Counseling Participant

  • "The Women’s Initiative is a magical healing space on every level. I hope everyone seeking compassionate care and community can discover all you offer."

    - Healthy Relationships Group Counseling Participant, Bienestar Program

Visit our resilience programs page to see the full list of groups.