Hi. I’m Julie Kirkwood and I’m a therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I’m also a parent of two teens and one adult.

I am the descendant of immigrants, a lifelong learner, and a social justice minded human. I strive to provide culturally informed, affirming care to all of my clients.

I take time outside of sessions to increase my knowledge about culture, race, sexual orientation and lived experiences, especially those that are different from my own. I place the responsibility on myself, not my clients, to continue expanding my knowledge and awareness so that I can provide a more effective therapeutic experience. 

What I Do

I provide psychotherapy for adults and teens whose lives involve:

• Stress, anxiety, and depression

• Navigating complex relationships with parents, partners, and children (growing and grown)

• Concern about the amount of alcohol, weed or other substances they or a loved one are using

Why I Do This Work

I do great work with adults, teens and families. I enjoy helping people find support and solutions so that the next chapter in their story is one of connection and joy. Because I’ve gone through my own parenting struggles (as a daughter and a mother), I know that it’s possible to make things better. And because I’ve worked for many years alongside teens, adults and families in recovery from substance abuse, addiction, and mental health issues, I’ve seen how powerful changes can transform painful interactions and bring peace.

My Holistic Approach to Healing

Therapy gives us time to process, breathe, and let new plans take shape. For some, adding the movement of walking outside with the trees around us and warmth of the sun on our skin helps our mind and body connect and heal. But don’t worry if that’s not your thing—we can meet inside, virtually, instead.

I also enjoy helping clients find resources that work in conjunction with therapy: Nutrition, fitness, yoga, deep breathing and more.

Fitness, health and self care, along with therapy, can have a transformative effect.

I use evidence based interventions in my work, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy and more.

My Credentials

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia

• Masters of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University

• B.A., Psychology, University of South Florida

• Certified Clinical Supervisor for registered social workers seeking licensure

• 16+ years of experience with community mental health and substance use disorders