Ariel is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. His passion for helping people discover meaning in their life and grow to reach their full potential drew him to the field and continues to drive his inspired approach.
Clinical Focus Areas
Ariel works with clients aged 15 and older, as well engaging in some targeted work with families. He focuses on supporting people pursuing recovery from depression and/or anxiety, those who feel like they have lost their sense of direction or meaning, and those seeking to make lifestyle changes or practices that increase their overall sense of wellbeing.
Counseling Approaches
Ariel uses a foundation of person-centered therapy, focusing on creating a trusting and genuine relationship and rapport with his clients. He also blends in strengths-based counseling, positive psychology, existential psychotherapy and mindfulness, as well as some elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing in his approach. Additionally, he is creative and open to practices that facilitate good working relationships and help clients to develop trust and comfort (i.e., conducting sessions outdoors, while taking walks, etc.).
Professional Philosophy
From Ariel’s own perspective: “My goal as a therapist is to encourage individuals in realizing their potential, in becoming the best version of themselves, and in finding solutions to life’s unexpected challenges. A successful counseling experience starts with a genuine therapeutic relationship. I also believe in the power of a positive mindset and in the importance of being in the present moment. And to bring this all together, I commonly explore and incorporate existential philosophy with my clients.”
Educational Background
Ariel earned a Masters in Education (M.Ed.) in Marriage and Family Therapy and a B.A. in Psychology with a Minor in Sociology and English from The College of William and Mary.
Professional Experience
Ariel bring over five years of clinical experience as an individual and family therapist, spanning both private practice and non-profit settings. Throughout his career, he demonstrated a consistent ability to establishing strong rapport with young people facing a variety of difficulties. He also created and maintains an effective support group for adults and parents. A certified Mindfulness instructor, he launched and directed the Mindfulness Program at a local non-profit agency for local elementary, middle, and high schools.
Prior to this, Ariel worked at the Peninsula School of Autism as an Applied Behavior Analyst. He also worked at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and volunteered at the Animal Aid Society.
Fun Facts About Ariel
- Ariel loves spending time with his family and three dogs.
- He is passionate about animals and nature in general, preferring to be outside rather than inside!
- He enjoys reading, traveling, meditating, and going on walks with his dogs.
- Sports are a big part of his life, playing year-round sports and always trying to stay active!
- His favorite colors are yellow and green.
- His favorite music artists are Bob Dylan and Wu Tang Clan.
- The background you see in Ariel’s photo is from our office “The Spark” here at Free Spirit.
Contact Ariel directly to request to schedule an upcoming appointment at ariel@freespiritonline.org or at (757) 330-0460.
Insurance Information: Ariel is currently in-network with Aetna, Anthem BCBS, Cigna/Evernorth, Optum/UBH, Sentara Health Plans (formerly Optima/VA Premier), and Tricare. He is still processing for Aetna Better Health and Molina.