Our Agents of Change

Joanne.Perdu@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 701

I was born in Sion, Switzerland and was raised mostly in Montreal, Canada. I moved to the States to pursue a Master’s in Child Study, hoping to do research on the impact of childhood cancer on families. I lived in France for a few years and moved back to the States as I followed my husband. We settled in Northern Virginia, where we raised our now grown son and daughter. During that time, I completed another master’s in School Counseling and a Post Master’s Certificate to be a Licensed Professional Counselor.

I was incredibly fortunate to work as a school counselor in non-traditional settings for my first ten years. The students and staff fueled my passion for social justice and restorative justice practices. My internship for my Post Master’s Certificate was at Life with Cancer, another rich experience which has impacted my counseling style. I just retired from Fairfax County Public Schools this past June, 2020, but hope to remain active in helping high schoolers who will be First Generation college students.

My theoretical approaches are Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Humanistic Approach. CBT is a problem-solving theory which presumes that personal beliefs impact emotions and behaviors. Our automatic thoughts/beliefs that are developed in childhood are not always accurate and a change in these beliefs can cause better adaptations to difficult situations in the past and present. Humanistic Approach stress a person’s self-growth and actualization. The counseling skills I find most useful are Trauma-informed, uncovering thinking errors, mindfulness, distress tolerance as well as a variety of other skills from different theoretical approaches.

In my free time I like to swim; walk and talk with friends; and stitch, knit and sew projects which my children still don’t wear. I appreciate reading non-fiction and I also enjoy spending time with immediate and extended family which include our rescue dog and cat.

I am excited and so grateful to work for Nick Williams and Indelible Changes, where empathy, validation and solidarity are determined by Mr. Williams to be positive agents of change in our society and for our clients.

Let's Keep it Real

Courage, Faith, and Determination for Change

Lisa Hetzel, M.Ed., LPC

On Leave of Absence

Born and raised in Akron, Ohio (yes, the hometown of Lebron James) I was a quiet, cautious kid who spent a lot of time observing others around me. I noticed that sometimes we all just need a little help in order to help ourselves. Sometimes, we just need to know that ONE person is on our side. T

Lisa Hetzel, M.Ed., LPC

On Leave of Absence

Being a counselor really became a part of me as I matured into adulthood. It is not just a career, but who I am. I pride myself in being a real, down to earth person who really empathizes with the different struggles we all face in life and how mental illness often plays a part. I received my Bachelor's degree from the University of Akron, and My Masters in Counseling from Kent State University in Ohio before moving to Virginia in hopes of pursuing more diversity and opportunity.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Board certified supervisor for mental health counseling and marriage and family therapy. I have over 10 years of experience providing person-centered, cognitive behavioral (CBT), and dialectical behavior (DBT) therapy to clients in private practice, community-based, crisis intervention, and outpatient settings. I offer clinical expertise to children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples in areas which include, but are not limited to, mood disorders (i.e.: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder), obsessive compulsive disorder, PTSD, low self-esteem, stress/life management, grief and bereavement, relationships, parenting skills, and behavior modification.

In my spare time, you will find me laughing with my husband, hiking, drinking coffee in historic towns, or being extra obsessed with my Pitbull, Sydney. I try to spend every minute possible with my nieces and nephew who give life a whole different meaning.

I love Learning, Teaching, and Helping. I am so thankful for this opportunity to work with a company so dedicated to empowering it's counselors and clients. An agency focused on change, permanent changes, Indelible Changes:).

Courage, Faith, and Determination for Change

Sheila Williams, MA, RIC

Resident in Counseling

Behavioral Health Therapist

Sheila.Williams@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 705

As a former member of the United States Air Force and having spent time as a government contractor, I am well aware of the courage, faith and determination it takes to

Sheila Williams, MA, RIC

Resident in Counseling

Behavioral Health Therapist

Sheila.Williams@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 705

As a former member of the United States Air Force and having spent time as a government contractor, I am well aware of the courage, faith and determination it takes to create, manage and/or cope with change. And when change occurs due to situations of out of our control and against our will, we often feel overwhelmed. It’s during those times when seeking help is one of the most courageous things you can do; especially if you’re raised in a culture where mental health is not openly discussed or acknowledged.

After a blessed military career and not really enjoying life as a government contractor, I felt it was time to do what I’ve wanted to do since I was child; being a counselor, helping people enjoy their life and those dear to them. So, I went back to school, earned a Bachelor’s in Psychology from George Mason University, a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and I’m currently a Virginia Licensed Resident in Counseling.

I have experience in working with children, adolescents, and adults. Providing individual, parent support and family counseling in outpatient and intensive in-home settings. Due to my belief that our perception of things (how we view ourselves, others, events/situations etc.) plays a key role to our behaviors, my theoretical approach includes Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness.

I am truly excited to be a part of Indelible Changes team. To work in an environment that is not only dedicated to client well-being and care; but is also focused on the development and well-being of its staff.

Safe Space, Empowerment, and Advocacy

Courage, Faith, and Determination for Change

Safe Space, Empowerment, and Advocacy

Rose Cortijo, MA, RIC

Resident in Counseling

Behavioral Health Therapist

Rose.Cortijo@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 706

I am a first generation Latina from D.C. and Northern VA. As a proud Army veteran, serving our country defined purpose, integrity, perseverance, and leadership within me.

Rose Cortijo, MA, RIC

Resident in Counseling

Behavioral Health Therapist

Rose.Cortijo@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 706

I am a first generation Latina from D.C. and Northern VA. As a proud Army veteran, serving our country defined purpose, integrity, perseverance, and leadership within me. Upon returning home, I attended George Mason University; where, I obtained my Bachelor Degree in Psychology with a Minor in Administration in Criminal Justice. I also earned my Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling; and currently, I am a Virginia Licensed Resident in Counseling.

Growing up, I identified the influence of a School Counselor as a helpful and caring role for the youth. I believe this interaction instilled my inner drive to assist others in need; particularly through advocacy. I believe in the power of building strong therapeutic relationships by providing clients with safe therapeutic spaces where they can process their journey, vocalize their thoughts, and empower themselves to work towards the change they seek. Change is an everlasting process; and empowering and assisting clients with their needs for advocacy is my mission within counseling. I have a passion for being culturally competent and aiding in the efforts of breaking down the negative stigma of mental health within the minority populations/communities.

Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of serving different populations. I have worked as a Case Manager assisting singles and families at a homeless shelter, provided home based services to adults, worked as a Residential Counselor for male and female juveniles, worked as a Residential Counselor for adolescent males within a transitional living program, and provided services as a Prevention Therapist for at-risk youth/juveniles and their families all through individual, family, group therapy while implementing prevention programs to strengthen the resources within their communities.

I consider my primary theoretical orientation to be Solution-Focused Therapy (SF). One of the main principles of SF is that clients have strengths and internal resources to solve their own complaints/struggles. SF allows clients to be empowered with re-creating their realities in ways that lead them to a higher chance of success along their journeys. I truly believe clients are the authors and narrators of their story. Thus, being a reflective sounding board and working collaboratively with my clients to identify alternative solutions and assist them with overcoming obstacles is a calling I am grateful to humbly answer.

Outside of therapy, I have the blessing of raising my son while building lasting bonding memories with him. We enjoy being our own comedians. I also enjoy working out, going to the movies, performing arts, and celebrating all things regarding cultures; especially music, arts, cuisine, and my favorite of all: dance. Dance is another form of creative expression, where the soul lives on the dance floor. I value spending time with my family, friends, and attending church to feed my soul.

It is an honor to be part of the Indelible Changes agency and a privilege to serve you along your journey of healing and empowerment.

Renewed Sense of Peace

Learning, Giving, and Embracing the World Together

Josh Sloan, MS, RIC

Resident in Counseling

Behavioral Health Therapist

Joshua.Sloan@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 702

Hi! My name is Josh. I'm a post-grad of Radford University who is passionate about the field of counseling and about you! All my work is geared towards helping people become the

Josh Sloan, MS, RIC

Resident in Counseling

Behavioral Health Therapist

Joshua.Sloan@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 702

Hi! My name is Josh. I'm a post-grad of Radford University who is passionate about the field of counseling and about you! All my work is geared towards helping people become the best versions of themselves and treating them with unconditional love through the creation of a safe counseling environment.

I wanted to become a counselor once I started taking my first psychology gen-ed classes. I had a talent for helping my friends through a tough time, and even though I was declared as a computer science major, I realized that psychology was where my heart was pointed. I felt like I could make more of a positive difference writing case notes instead of patch notes.

I use Person-Centered, Solution-Focused, and Cognitive-Behavioral techniques as a part of my practice. Most of my counseling experience is centered around substance use treatment and individual counseling. I am also LGBTQ+ friendly.

When I'm not working, I enjoy making and tasting new foods, reading fantasy novels, watching horror movies, and playing videogames; right now mostly Final Fantasy XIV Online. I enjoy all of these best in the company of my loved ones and friends. I hope to get to know you and work with you to heal what hurts, and bring a renewed sense of peace to your life.

http://indeliblechanges.clientsecure.me

Learning, Giving, and Embracing the World Together

Celine Liu, M.Ed., RIC

Resident in Counseling

Behavioral Health Therapist

Celine.Liu@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 703

I was born and raised in China, and obtained my Bachelor of Science degree from Peking University. Afterward, I made the decision to travel to the United States to pursue a M

Celine Liu, M.Ed., RIC

Resident in Counseling

Behavioral Health Therapist

http://indeliblechanges.clientsecure.me

Celine.Liu@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 703

I was born and raised in China, and obtained my Bachelor of Science degree from Peking University. Afterward, I made the decision to travel to the United States to pursue a Master's degree in Counselor Education from the University of Virginia.

As a child, I was quite introverted but possessed a deep passion for understanding the world around me. I was consistently intrigued by the actions and thoughts of others, and found great joy in engaging in one-on-one conversations that allowed me to understand individuals more profoundly. As I matured, I discovered a deep sense of fulfillment from positively influencing the lives of others. This engagement not only extended the boundaries of my own existence but also added color and significance to my life.

I am a strong believer in the power of acceptance. I believe that we must all aspire to live authentically and accept all aspects of ourselves, including our highs and lows. This acceptance allows us to better appreciate and love the world around us. I have devoted a lot of time to understanding and navigating my own emotions and desires, and I have sought to find the most harmonious ways to coexist with them. My hope is to help others do the same: to find peace with what cannot be changed, to pursue courageously what can be altered, and to cultivate the wisdom to distinguish between the two.

My professional experience includes working with students in rural areas in both China and the United States. I've also had the opportunity to work as a peer counselor for young adults who identify as LGBTQ. Additionally, I've served as a crisis hotline listener, providing assistance to individuals in their most dire moments of need. My theoretical orientation is broad and includes Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), and Person-Centered Therapy.

In my free time, you can often find me playing the ukulele, cooking, visiting museums, or embarking on city walks. I am always with my camera, looking to capture a tangible memory of the world around me. I am incredibly grateful to be part of a team that is committed to helping individuals make lasting changes in their lives. Let's embark on a journey of learning, giving, and embracing the world together.

Resilience and Strength in the mist of Adversity

Learning, Giving, and Embracing the World Together

Resilience and Strength in the mist of Adversity

Belinda Laryea, MS, RIC

Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy

Behavioral Health Therapist

Belinda.Laryea@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 709

I am originally from Ghana in West Africa. As I have a Bachelor's and Master’s degrees in the field of natural resource management, coupled with a passion

Belinda Laryea, MS, RIC

Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy

Behavioral Health Therapist

Belinda.Laryea@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 709

I am originally from Ghana in West Africa. As I have a Bachelor's and Master’s degrees in the field of natural resource management, coupled with a passion for helping others, I worked with several local communities in Ghana to sustainably manage their natural resources. Upon relocation to the US, my innate desire to help others led me to the human services field where I have worked for over fifteen years with persons with developmental disabilities, their families, and support teams in resolving challenging situations impacting their lives and meeting desired goals.

Working in the human services field, I am exposed regularly to challenging situations, often involving communication problems within relationships, marital conflicts, trauma, abuse, behavior crises, mental health issues, and other human sufferings. I have also witnessed the resilience and strengths that people possess in the face of these adversities. I, therefore, pursued a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy so I can help provide people with the necessary support and tools so they can make positive and lasting changes in their lives.

Currently, I am a Virginia-licensed Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy. My theoretical orientations include Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy. I believe that every person has the capacity for change. I therefore work collaboratively with clients to identify and build on their strengths and resources so they can achieve their desired goals. As I am always seeking to gain a better understanding of people, I enjoy working with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

In my free time, I like to watch medical drama shows, go for walks, dance, and spend time with family and friends. I also love to attend church as my faith constitutes a significant part of my identity.

About Us

Offering a Path Forward

A Passion for Helping Others

Light at the Tunnel's End

Fatimah Abdullah, MS, LPC

Behavioral Health Therapist II

Fatimah.Abdullah@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 704

As a Licensed Professional Counselor, with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, I am committed to helping individuals learn how to build healthier relationships with t

Fatimah Abdullah, MS, LPC

Behavioral Health Therapist II

Fatimah.Abdullah@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 704

As a Licensed Professional Counselor, with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, I am committed to helping individuals learn how to build healthier relationships with themselves, others, and the world. I’m passionate about creating a safe space for individuals who need someone to talk too, be supported, and needing guidance in overcoming obstacles in their life.

I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habits, feelings, and beliefs around problems that arise in everyday life. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals. I consider my theoretical approach to include cognitive behavioral therapy, behavior therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and person-centered therapy.

During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, watching movies, and walking.

“If you’re struggling to manage feelings, thoughts and/ or behaviors”, I can help you navigate these things and offer a path forward.”

Light at the Tunnel's End

A Passion for Helping Others

Light at the Tunnel's End

Erin Koffman Pollock, JD, MA, RIC

Resident in Counseling

Behavioral Health Therapist

Erin.Pollock@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 707

I was born in Michigan and became fascinated by psychology and how the brain works when I took my first psychology class in high school. I went on to receive my

Erin Koffman Pollock, JD, MA, RIC

Resident in Counseling

Behavioral Health Therapist

Erin.Pollock@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 707

I was born in Michigan and became fascinated by psychology and how the brain works when I took my first psychology class in high school. I went on to receive my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Michigan State University and then my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I had the opportunity to work with a wide array of individuals, ranging from those suffering with schizophrenia, to those dealing with depression, anxiety and trauma. I then pursued my law degree at Emory University, with the goal of expanding my ability to help others. I eventually landed in family law and conducted divorce mediations, helping families work through a very painful time in the most compassionate way possible. I became quite adept at working with families and also helping individuals deal with high conflict ex-spouses by setting boundaries to protect themselves when having to co-parent together.

I subsequently became a divorce coach, which allowed me to take a more direct stance in supporting my clients. I helped people to be successful in big life transitions, some of which included going from married to single and major career and lifestyle changes. Working collaboratively with my clients, we created action plans to get their lives back on track while enabling them to embrace the strength to find their way forward to a future they felt was meaningful and exciting. A major focus for me was assisting individuals in recovering from narcissistic abuse. Things can feel dark sometimes but it is my goal to show you that you can conquer grief, anxiety, trauma and any challenges that cross your path. I take it upon myself to show you there is always light at the end of the tunnel.

Throughout my entire career, helping people through difficult times and to live their best lives has been my constant goal. I have taken all this experience and circled back to being a therapist and am currently a Licensed Resident in Counseling. My main therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), sprinkled with various tenets of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Choice Theory. I provide collaborative, holistic and trauma-informed care. I believe that people can change their reality and life trajectory by working through faulty, limiting and ineffective thoughts they may have developed at various points in life. My goal is to empower my clients by giving them actionable steps they can take and teaching coping strategies they will be able to employ on their own for the rest of their lives. I strive to create a safe environment for all of my clients, where they can feel connected, at ease and motivated to work on anything, completely judgment free.

I am honored to be a part of the Indelible Changes team, where there is a solid commitment to help individuals and families heal and break free from whatever may be holding them back.

My free time is spent with my husband and children. I also love working out, the beach, learning, traveling and playing with my mini Goldendoodle, named Lavender.

A Passion for Helping Others

Makaila Sprague, MA, RIC

Resident in Counseling

Behavioral Health Therapist

Makaila.Sprague@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 710

As long as I can remember my passion has been helping others. During undergrad I became fascinated with the human brain and development and how we are shaped as indiv

Makaila Sprague, MA, RIC

Resident in Counseling

Behavioral Health Therapist

Makaila.Sprague@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 710

As long as I can remember my passion has been helping others. During undergrad I became fascinated with the human brain and development and how we are shaped as individuals through our beliefs, culture, experiences, and interactions with the world around us.

While completing coursework associated with my family studies minor, I discovered that I wanted my work to involve helping individuals and their families succeed and become self-sufficient. Another essential part of my journey in becoming a therapist has been centered around helping end the stigma that is often associated with discussing mental health and seeking treatment. I have been working in the mental health field for several years now.

I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from James Madison University in 2017. I completed my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy in December 2022.

Over the years I have enjoyed advocating for my clients and providing community-based, in-home, and outpatient therapy services. I am passionate about helping individuals, children, couples, and families overcome challenges and live the life they desire to create for themselves.

My theoretical approach is rooted in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I provide holistic, collaborative, and trauma-informed care. I also enjoy using strategies from the Gottman Method when helping couples manage conflict and build connection and intimacy.

When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time my loved ones. I also love reading, journaling, and tending to my ever-growing collection of houseplants.

Kindness, Empathy, and Curiosity

Melba Folly, MA, RIC

Resident in Counseling

Behavioral Health Therapist

Melba.Folly@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 711

I am a first generation Ghanian American, married for 22 years and have two wonderful college aged children. Before entering Behavioral Health, I was in nursing school but fou

Melba Folly, MA, RIC

Resident in Counseling

Behavioral Health Therapist

Melba.Folly@IndelibleChanges.org

(855) 643-5787 ex: 711

I am a first generation Ghanian American, married for 22 years and have two wonderful college aged children. Before entering Behavioral Health, I was in nursing school but found myself advocating for my patients more than I was providing direct care. That’s when I knew my passion was Behavioral Health. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in psychology and counseling, and I am a member of the American Association of Christian Counselor (AACC).

While working with a local school system, I felt it was time to get back to advocating for clients, becoming a counselor, and improving peoples’ lives. So, I went back to school and earned my master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling at Walden University. I am currently a Virginia Licensed Resident in Counseling. My theoretical orientation includes Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SF) and Mindfulness.

My prior experience includes providing services in the outpatient and home-based settings. During my internship at Indelible Changes I worked with children, adolescents, and adults. Indelible Changes has greatly impacted my passion for being culturally competent and learning to encourage efforts of breaking down the negative stigma of mental health within the African populations/communities. I am genuinely excited to return to the team at Indelible Changes, while also looking forward to work in an atmosphere that is devoted to client well-being and focused on the development of all its staff.

When off work, I enjoy spending quality time with my husband and two college-aged kids. Additionally, attending church to praise and worship is a must in my life. Chatting and hanging out with friends, dancing, going to the movies and reading non- fiction books all play a big role in my everyday life as well. I also volunteer for a non-profit organization: We Care Missions international, and in collaboration with AME Zion Church, works with widows from west Africa, specifically Ghanaians. Lastly, one of my favorite quotes by Plato states: “Be Kind; Everyone You Meet is Fighting a Hard Battle”. I favor this quote because it encourages us to look at our surrounding circumstances with kindness, empathy, and curiosity.

Kindness, Empathy, and Curiosity

Always giving 100%

Kindness, Empathy, and Curiosity

Always giving 100%

LaToya Cheathem, MSW, LCSW

Behavioral Health Supervisor

I give 100% in everything I do when it comes to serving my clients. I recently started providing licensure supervision to supervisees in Social Work.

I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2001 and since then have pursued a path in workin

LaToya Cheathem, MSW, LCSW

Behavioral Health Supervisor

I give 100% in everything I do when it comes to serving my clients. I recently started providing licensure supervision to supervisees in Social Work.

I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2001 and since then have pursued a path in working with families and children. I am is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia, and have worked in diverse setting. These include Foster Care, Child Protective Services, Second Responder Crisis Team, and Sex Offender Outpatient Therapy. Additionally, I have worked with Intensive In-Home Services, Support Services, New Horizons CSB in the schools and community, Intellectual Disabilities and currently Outpatient Therapy.

I specialize in providing therapy for children, adolescents, adults, and families. My skill set includes grief counseling, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, women's issues, relationship issues, stress, anger management, trauma, child development, behavior management, communication issues, parenting skills, learning disabilities, ADHD, ODD, mood disorders, and life transitions. Interventions are based on client’s needs and strengths to include cognitive-behavioral, task-oriented, insight-oriented, and solution-focused interventions.

When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, husband of 19 years, and 2 kids; a daughter and son both in their tween/teen years. I also enjoy watching movies, reading, shopping, amusement parks, exercising, spending time with friends, and traveling. I grew up in the Baptist church and continue to attend and worship regularly.