Philosophy of Care 

Alison Rinsland is a Resident in Counseling who provides therapy to adults 18 years and older. Alison’s clinical interests are anxiety disorders, perinatal / postpartum mental health, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), perfectionism, identity issues, and spiritual/religious trauma. Additionally, she has clinical experience working with depression, grief, domestic violence, women’s issues, neurodiversity, relationship issues, trauma, and addiction.

Alison practices from a trauma-informed approach and finds great importance in the safety and dynamics of the therapeutic relationship. She aims to create a warm and supportive environment for individuals to tap into their authentic self and begin their journey of discovery and growth. She uses Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), existential therapy, and mindful 
self-compassion techniques with her clients. A holistic approach (honoring the mind, body, and spirit) are all considered within the therapy process. Alison sees the counseling room as a safe space for exploration, processing, gaining new skills, learning what’s helping us and what’s not, and interpersonal awareness. Alison has been on both sides of the couch and recognizes how difficult yet rewarding this work can be. She believes it is an honor and a privilege to work side by side with her clients and treasures it deeply. 

Alison got her bachelor’s degree in Human Services with a certificate in Addiction Treatment and Prevention at Old Dominion University. Then, she got her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the same school. Alison continued her strive for knowledge by completing her trainings through Postpartum Support International (PSI), getting certified in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD and other anxiety disorders, and completied trainings through the Religious Trauma Institute. Additionally, Alison has completed several Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Trainings, is on track to finish her EMDR training, and is polyvagal theory informed. 

 In Alison’s spare time, she is spending time with her family and her 86-pound greyhound dog. She enjoys hiking, doing stained glass, riding bikes, traveling, comedy, and interior décor.

Education

Bachelors of Science in Education: Human Services, with a certificate in Addiction Treatment and Prevention (Old Dominion University)

Masters of Science in Education: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Old Dominion University)

Specialties 

• Anxiety
• OCD
• Perinatal Mental Health
• Spiritual and Religious Trauma
• Perfectionism

Locations

Alison sees clients in person at the Virginia Beach Office and via Telehealth