Ricky Canaday, M.Ed.

Hi, I’m Ricky. I am a Resident in Counseling with a passion for creating safe, affirming spaces where people can rediscover their worth, develop tools for growth, and move forward with greater confidence and hope.

I earned my M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The College of William & Mary and my B.S. in Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University. I also hold an A.S. in Social Sciences and an A.A.S. in Business Management with a specialization in Marketing.

I provide in-person counseling at Free Spirit’s Yorktown location, as well as online therapy. I work with adults ages 18 and older and couples.

I support clients who are navigating concerns such as:

My counseling approach blends Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, strengths-based counseling, and solution-focused techniques. I work collaboratively with clients to help them recognize their strengths, develop practical tools, connect with their values, and make meaningful progress toward the life they want to create. Christian counseling is also available upon request.

I believe the heart of therapy lies in genuine connection. I focus on building a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, honest, collaborative, and empowering. My goal is to help you feel seen, valued, and supported without judgment. I view counseling as a collaborative journey where you can better understand yourself, rediscover your strengths, face challenges, and create meaningful change. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, grief, or a difficult transition, I want to walk alongside you as you find clarity, heal, and grow into the person you want to become.

Before becoming a counselor, I worked in a behavioral health setting as a Behavioral Health Associate, where I supported individuals navigating a range of mental health challenges. Through this experience, I gained firsthand knowledge of crisis intervention, emotional regulation, active listening, and helping people through difficult transitions. This work strengthened my ability to remain calm, empathetic, and supportive during challenging moments. I bring that experience into my counseling work to help clients feel grounded, understood, and empowered from the beginning of the therapeutic relationship.