Priscilla Kifer, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Priscilla Kifer, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
About
Priscilla Kifer
Speaking from experience, I know that it can be challenging to ask for help, so, I'm glad that you are here. As a licensed professional counselor, I create a non-judgmental space for you and in this space of comfort & caring, we will work together to find what it is that you're looking for. For some of my clients they need a soft place to land & supportive counseling; other clients may want to gain a greater insight into themselves and alleviate symptoms of grief, anxiety, or depression. Other people may be looking to create healthier relationships with those around them or have a desire to better regulate their emotions. The good news is that I'm here to support your needs.
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My professional background has allowed me to work in a variety of settings that include community mental health, residential substance use treatment and private practice. Additionally, I have worked as a clinical supervisor for licensed professionals along with those who are just starting out in the field. I am registered with the Virginia Board of Counseling as a LPC-Supervisor.
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From a theoretical perspective, I was trained in Rogerian (person-centered) therapy and I tend to work from that approach. I believe that you are the expert in your own life and sometimes we just need someone to help us uncover the strengths that we have buried. Since 2011, I have been in clinical practice and have been trained in a number of modalities that include: dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing (MI), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and mindfulness. While one modality may work for some, I tend to be eclectic in using what fits for the person in front of me.
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Recently, I have been trained in acuwellness which involves utilizing acupuncture points in the ear to alleviate anxiety, depression, insomnia, and withdrawal symptoms. Most people find this to be a relaxing practice that is rooted in a form of self-care and self-healing.
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Personal Interests
While I love my work, I equally love time spent in the outdoors. Whether it's a quick walk with my dogs, playing in the flower beds, or hiking, I find peace in nature. In fact, research has shown that time spent in nature is beneficial to our mental health by creating positive emotions and helps us to generate a sense of purpose. I feel that a lot of healing can be done when we are connected to nature and that is one way that I stay balanced.
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Additionally, after several years of pondering this endeavor, I embarked upon a Yoga Teacher Training at the beginning of 2024 through Maha Vira Yoga, in Richmond, VA. After first falling in love with yin yoga during graduate school, I practiced on and off throughout the years. Yoga has been a huge compliment to my ongoing mental health training and research has shown that it helps reduces stress, anxiety, and depression. Yoga is also known to improve sleep patterns and enhance the overall quality of life. I enjoy hanging out on my mat and am looking forward to trying my hand at teaching, as well as, incorporating these practices into my work with clients.
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Other interests include cooking, baking, photography, music, and reading. I can always be found with a pile of books that I'm working through.
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Training & Qualifications
2017
2024
Registered Yoga Teacher - RYT 200
Expected, June 2024
2023
Acupuncture Detoxification Specialist (ADS)
National Acupuncture Detoxification Association #105155-169-999-7663
2022
EMDR Level 1 & 2 Training
2019
Board Certified Clinical Supervisor - Virginia
Licensed Professional Counselor - Virginia #0701007326
2014
Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (North Carolina #2747)
Licensed Mental Health Counselor (North Carolina #8917)
2011
Master of Arts in Community Counseling
The University of Nort Carolina at Charlotte
2008
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte