**IMMEDIATE OPENINGS** – In Person Focused (Yorktown) & Online, Mon. & Weds. (late morning, afternoon, afterschool & evening!) – Contact direct (below) to schedule!
Ricky is completing his Practicum in Counseling in pursuit of his M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The College of William and Mary. He also received his B.S. in Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University, an A.S. in Social Sciences, and an A.A.S. in Business Management with a specialization in Marketing. His has a passion for creating safe, affirming spaces where people can rediscover their worth, develop tools for growth, and move forward with confidence and hope.
Clinical Focus Areas & Counseling Approach
Ricky provides in-person focused counseling (Yorktown location) for individuals (ages 18 and up) and couples, as well on online therapy. He assists clients seeking support with life transitions, military life, motivation building, healthy lifestyle crafting, stress reduction, self-esteem, healthy boundaries, communication skills, conflict resolution, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, and more. His counseling approach blends Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Person-Centered Therapy, with an emphasis on strengths-based and solution-focused techniques to help clients make meaningful progress.
Professional Philosophy
From his perspective: “I believe that the heart of therapy lies in genuine connection. I focus on building a relationship that is safe, honest, and empowering. I view counseling as a collaborative journey where you can rediscover your strengths, face challenges, and create meaningful change. I’m passionate about helping you feel seen, valued, and capable—especially during moments when life feels overwhelming. My goal is to walk alongside you as you find clarity, heal, and grow into the version of yourself you want to become.”
Professional Experience
Ricky brings valuable experience working in a behavioral health setting as a Behavioral Health Associate, where he supported individuals navigating a range of mental health challenges. In this role, he gained firsthand experience in crisis intervention, emotional regulation, and supporting clients through difficult transitions. His time in this setting strengthened his skills in empathy, active listening, and creating therapeutic environments that promote healing. Ricky brings this experience into his counseling work, helping clients feel grounded and empowered from the very first session.
Fun Facts About Ricky
- Ricky finds joy in music production, DJing, and creating sounds that move people.
- He also enjoys fitness and staying active, seeing it as both a physical and mental reset.
- His favorite color is red.
- Her favorite color is green!
- His favorite music artist right now is Chosen Jigg.
- The background you see in Ricky’s photo is from our office “The Shore” here at Free Spirit.
To schedule an appointment with Ricky, contact Clinical Director Dr. Jill Nardin, LPC at: jill@freespiritonline.org or 757-204-1866.
Ricky works directly under the supervision of Clinical Director Dr. Jill Nardin, LPC. Therapy with Free Spirit Cares non-profit students is free of charge.